Hoops beat Hibs to go top of the SWPL table

Celtic F.C.

·18 April 2024

Hoops beat Hibs to go top of the SWPL table

SWPLWednesday, April 17, 2024Excelsior Stadium, Airdrie

CELTIC… 1(Hayes 21)

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HIBERNIAN… 0

Celtic FC Women moved to the top of the SWPL table on Wednesday evening after sealing three points with a 1-0 win over Hibernian, with a first-half header from Caitlin Hayes enough to seal the victory.

The opening stages of the match proved to be quite scrappy between the two teams, with neither creating many opportunities. That being said, both teams would go on to have their share of opportunities in the match.

Thankfully for the Hoops, their first real opening in the 21st minute would ultimately end up resulting in a goal as Hayes scored the first goal in the game for the third match running after strikes against Glasgow City and Partick Thistle.

The Ireland internationalist once again showed her threat from set-pieces, heading home from a Kelly Clark delivery for her 16th goal of the campaign.

And having taken the lead, Elena Sadiku’s side pushed forward in search of another goal, and Tash Flint came close following good work from Kit Loferski, but her effort was well-saved.

Colette Cavanagh was next to come close, creating space on the edge of the area before striking the crossbar with a right-footed effort.

It was Hibernian who created the first clear chance of the second-half, but Hoops keeper, Kelsey Daugherty produced a smart stop to prevent the equaliser.

And after going close in the first half, Tash Flint found herself unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet, seeing several efforts cleared off the line or striking the post.

With match entering the closing stages, it was important for the Hoops to see out the match with a huge three points on the line.

Daugherty produced another big save with just over 15 minutes remaining, denying the Hibs forward from close range, and ensuring a 1-0 win for Celtic, which puts them top of the SWPL.

Next up for Elena Sadiku’s side is another massive league game, playing Hearts at Celtic Park this Sunday, April 21 (KO: 4.10pm).