Celtic keep season ticket promise with Paradise date set

By Euan Davidson

March 4, 2022

It’s been talked about since the start of the season ticket roll-out; when will Celtic FC Women get their game at Paradise in 21-22?

Celtic beat Rangers in the SWPL last season at Parkhead, with American former Hoops striker Mariah Lee grabbing the all-important winner. It was a big moment, and one Fran Alonso made the most of, with a post-match huddle under the Paradise lights.

The only problem? No fans. But this time round, with Covid restrictions away, Celtic will play Hibernian at Paradise on Saturday, March 26th. And it’s free for season ticket holders [Celtic FC]. With Alonso’s side desperate to make up ground on Rangers and Glasgow City, it’ll be another crucial one for Kelly Clark and the Ghirls.

Hibernian, at the time of writing, sit fourth in the SWPL1 table [BBC]. The Hoops have won 2 of their 3 meetings against the Hibees this season, with the most recent meeting being a 1-1 draw at the dreaded Tony Macaroni Arena. Although season ticket holders have had access to the Celtic Women’s Team through the Pass to Paradise platform, the prospect of a game at Paradise is something quite different.

In September, Hibernian helped to set a record for an SWPL attendance. Their derby against Hearts ended up being a sell-out at Easter Road [BBC].

Clearly, Celtic are hoping for the same kind of outcome at Paradise.

Celtic keep their Paradise promise as season ticket holders can enjoy Women’s team in familiar territory

Given that Celtic FC Women normally play their games at the Penny Cars Stadium in Airdrie, having the side play at Parkhead is a really tantalising prospect.

Already SWPL cup winners, Alonso’s side are an entertaining watch. Though recent results haven’t been quite as good, with the Hoops firmly placed third in the table, there’s still a lot to play for. Last season’s second-placed finish ensured a place in the Champions League qualifiers.

So how does it work?

Season ticket holders can sign up for a free match ticket on the Celtic website. Hospitality packages are also available, and there’ll be a general sale once season ticket holders have had the chance to secure their tickets.

Alonso’s side guarantee goals, and in Hibs, there’s a real test there. In what’ll be a landmark moment for the Celtic Women’s team, a packed Paradise would be a huge gesture of support for the project Fran Alonso is building.

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