SWPL: Celtic see off Hibernian to stay level at the top

Apr 14 2010

CELTIC kept apace with SWPL leaders Glasgow City with a well-earned 2-1 win over third placed Hibernian at Lennoxtown.

The Hoops had to dig deep to overcome their opponents from the capital. But Robert Docherty's side secured the points thanks to a first half goal from Stacy Cook and an own goal 15 minutes from time.

Cook's opener, after half an hour's play, followed a fiercely fought opening to the match.

Hibs had rattled the woodwork and Celtic's defence had to scramble the ball off the line as the game opened at a frenetic pace.

But Cook settled home nerves when she rose to nod home a Leanne Crichton corner kick.

Suzanne Grant went close to doubling the lead before the interval as Celtic began to get a foothold on the game.

But they had to wait until the 75th minute for the second goal which arrived via Hibs defender Lisa Robertson who deflected Amy McDonald's cross into her own net.

It looked as if that was game, set and match for the Hoops - before Hibs brought themselves back into things with a 81st minute headed goal from Jenna Scott.

This led to a nervy closing few minutes for the home side but they held out for an important win which keeps them level at the top on 12 points as they go about trying to dismantle Glasgow City's dominance of the women's game in Scotland.

Celtic coach Robert Docherty said: "I was delighted for our players as they gave their all I believe Hibs will be challenging for honours this year as they are a very good team with some very good players, so getting the three points was very important to us."

Elsewhere in the SWPL, Glasgow City stay top after an incredible 14-0 trouncing of Aberdeen.

Rangers inflicted a first defeat of the season on Spartans as Cheryll Gallacher notched a hat trick in a 4-3 win. Lana Clelland scored the other goal.

The Gers move up to sixth in the table with seven points from four games.