Delight for Celtic as they beat rivals in derby and march on in SWPL Cup

By John McGinley

October 31, 2021

A fierce shot from Charlie Wellings in the 56th minute was enough to give Celtic FC Women a big SWPL Cup 1-0 win away to Rangers Women this afternoon.

The fixture is part of a massive week for Fran Alonso’s team, who also face Hearts and Rangers again in league action over the next seven days.

Today was all about progression to the semi-finals, however, and Celtic fully deserved their victory, showing more attacking ambition and creating the best chances throughout the 90 minutes.

With the scores level at half-time, Alonso’s side came out after the interval with real intent and purpose, even increasing their stranglehold on the game after the goal went in. Attacking class and defensive determination was shown, which bodes well for the ambitions of the team this season.

The win continues a trend of joy over Rangers across the last 12 months, after finishing ahead of them in SWPL 1 last season and qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

This year it’s tight at the top of the league table again, with Celtic sitting in third after seven matches, two points behind league leaders Rangers.

However, with one big rival shunted out of the way in the SWPL Cup, there’s a real chance of silverware this season. Hibernian, Glasgow City and Spartans remain in the competition with Celtic.

City are the obvious contenders given their dominance on Scottish football, but the Ghirls can undoubtedly run them close if given an opportunity.

The draw for the semi-final takes place tomorrow at 3 pm.

Elsewhere on 67 Hail Hail, The worrying Celtic issue yesterday that Ange needs to fix quickly.