The first Glasgow Derby of the season unfolded with intense drama as Rangers and Celtic played to a 2-2 draw at Broadwood on Thursday night. Rangers opened the scoring early, with Kirsty Howat delivering a stunning volley to set the tone. They quickly added a second goal, courtesy of Katie Wilkinson converting a penalty kick. However, Celtic wasn’t ready to back down, responding within minutes. Substitute Saoirse Noonan found the net from the spot, reigniting Celtic’s hopes. In a nail-biting finish, Célya Barclais equalized in the 87th minute, striking a powerful shot into the bottom corner.
This match marked the first time Rangers dropped points this season, although they still hold the top position in the SWPL table. Glasgow City is just one point behind, and third-placed Celtic remains close, trailing by only two points. This closely contested league is shaping up to be an exciting battle for the title, with the three teams demonstrating remarkable resilience and skill.
In the aftermath of the match, the two managers shared their perspectives on the game. Celtic’s manager, Elena Sadiku, highlighted the mental toughness and determination displayed by her team. She expressed frustration over what she perceived as questionable officiating, particularly regarding the legitimacy of Rangers’ goals. Sadiku felt that while Rangers posed a threat, her team effectively managed their style of play and made crucial adjustments during the match. Despite the draw, she was proud of her team’s comeback from a two-goal deficit, emphasizing their relentless desire to win.
On the other side, Rangers’ manager Jo Potter reflected on the mistakes that led to the team’s first goal conceded. She acknowledged that managing critical moments is essential in high-stakes matches like the Old Firm derby. While expressing disappointment over not securing all three points, Potter refrained from commenting on the refereeing decisions, focusing instead on the need for her team to adapt and overcome challenges during the game.
Both teams showcased their competitive spirit, making this derby a memorable encounter in the ongoing league season. As the title race intensifies, fans can expect more thrilling matches ahead, with each club eager to solidify their position at the top of the table. The excitement of the SWPL continues as these fierce rivals vie for supremacy in Scottish women’s football.