The freezing temperatures of the last few weeks coupled with the interruption of the Cyprus Cup meant that the Scottish Women’s Football calendar had something of a delayed start. For many teams their first taste of action came last weekend in the Premier League Cup, as first round and quarter final matches got underway.
The best of the weekend’s action took place in Glasgow, as Glasgow City played host to Hibernian in a rematch of last season’s cup final. As in that previous meeting, Glasgow City came out on top, this time winning 2-0.
It was no easy game for the home side, as Hibernian’s dogged determination kept them in it for most of the match.
City started strong and just three minutes into the game Sue Lappin headed against the cross bar. They continued to dominate and had the vast majority of possession, with Hibernian unable to forge an effort on goal until the 28th minute.
City hit the post for a second time later in the first half when Jane Ross headed toward goal. Moments later and it was Eilish McSorley turn to see her headed attempt cleared off the line. Despite the pressure, City could not break the deadlock and at halftime the score remained 0-0.
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At the start of the second half it was a familiar story as the woodwork came to Hibernian’s rescue once again after Jane Ross hit a corner straight onto the crossbar. Striker Lisa Evans thought she had made the breakthrough with a well hit volley, but keeper Lynn was equal to it and pulled off a fine save.
The decisive moment finally came when Ross powered into the box, only to be brought down by Hibernian’s Rhonda Jones. The referee showed no hesitation in pointing to the spot, and midfielder Leanne Ross took full advantage by guiding the ball past Lynn.
In the final few minutes of the game City striker Katharina Lindner extended her teams lead when she struck the ball into the top corner from twenty yards out.
Peter Caulfied, Glasgow City boss, said “First and foremost we are delighted to get the season off to a good start and to get into the next round of the Cup. I felt we controlled the match, but it obviously took us a little longer than I would have wished to score the goals.
“Overall our performance was not surprising given we have not had any matches in preparation and our international players only returned on Thursday after four really hard matches in Cyprus.”
Other results in the Scottish Premier League Cup
First Round
Glasgow City 2 v 0 Hibernian
Dundee United 3 v 4 Spartans (after extra time)
Boroughmuir Thistle 1 v 3 Celtic
Glasgow City will now face Celtic, and Rangers will play Spartans in the remaining two Quarter Finals
Quarter Finals
Inverness 3 v 1 Hamilton Accies
Kilmarnock 0 v 4 Aberdeen
Rachel Stansfield, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
Photo credit: Glasgow City Club Photographer Lorraine Hill
