"We'll follow after you"; Ange's challenge for Celtic FC Women ahead of historic Cup Final

By Euan Davidson

December 4, 2021

Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has issued a challenge to Fran Alonso and the Celtic FC Women team; go out and make history, and we’ll follow your path.

The Women’s team are in a historic SWPL Cup Final tomorrow, taking on Glasgow City at Firhill. It’s Celtic’s first, and the attention speaks for itself; the BBC will be broadcasting the game live [SWF]. For Fran Alonso, it’s a fantastic opportunity for silverware, to back up his growing reputation in the Women’s game.

In a season of firsts, Celtic were in the Champions League qualifiers. There’s been international recognition for captain Kelly Clark and youngster Tegan Bowie [CFCW], while the Hoops also brought in players from Iceland and China for this season.

Ahead of a crucial game in the history of the Celtic FC Women team, Ange Postecoglou laid down the gauntlet. He said [Celtic FC]:

“To Fran, Kelly, and all the girls, I just want to wish you all the best in the Cup final.  You’re taking that Celtic tradition into a big game and I’m putting the pressure on you – I want you to be the first to bring silverware and then we’ll follow after you. 

“So, good luck girls and go hard!”

With the backing of Ange Postecoglou and Hoops fans, Celtic FC Women can make history

Having taken the SWPL1 to its final day last season, Fran Alonso is due some silverware. The difference he’s made to the new-professional set-up in the Women’s team has been immeasurable.

There have been positive steps since Alonso took the job. The team are competing with Glasgow City and Rangers in the league. European competition has raised the standards, and recruitment has been excellent. Although the likes of Sarah Ewens and Lisa Robertson departed, Celtic FC Women haven’t really missed a step.

With increased exposure through the BBC, and Celtic making more of an effort to put the Women’s team in the focus of supporters, a Cup Final win would only add to the momentum behind Alonso’s team.

5 points behind the top spot in the SWPL1 [Flashscore], there’s still a lot for the Celtic FC Women team to aim at. Just like the men’s side, a Cup win would provide excellent impetus in the league, as well as justifiably rewarding the boss.

With the Celtic First Team taking on Hibs in the Premier Sports Cup Final this month, there’s chance of a Celtic double across December.

If you thought there was a feel-good factor around the club now, then achieving two final wins would amplify that further.

Read more: Ange’s fiery Kyogo comments are exactly what Celtic fans want to hear from manager