Fairlie and Lynn star for Hibs Ladies

A double from Susan Fairlie, the first a sensational solo  effort and the second an audacious lob, saw the Hibees win 2-0 against the hoops at Albyn Park, Broxburn.

In the closing minutes Celtic were reduced to ten players when substitute goalkeeper Chloe Arthur was sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, however, by that stage, the Easter Road girls had already secured the points.

“We were very poor in the first half and lucky to go into the half-time interval level.” commented Coach Willie Kirk, before moving on to praise keeper Shannon Lynn’s contribution.

“We had Shannon thank for keeping us in it. She made a number of fine saves to keep Celtic out and that gave us a platform to build upon.

“We have been due a result against Celtic for some time and it was pleasing to see Susan continue her fine form in front of goal – that’s now five goals in her last three games.

Elsewhere, Hutchison Vale created their own little bit of history when they won a third consecutive SWPL encounter in a row for the first time ever. Hutchie were too strong for  visitors Rangers with goals from Kat Smart, Kate Sheppard and Laura Gavin ensuring a 3-1 victory over the Govan side.

Manager Ian McDonald said: “I felt it was our best team performance of the season and every player stuck to the game plan. Although we didn’t dominate, we were in complete  control throughout and  deserved our win.”

Victory for Hutchie moves them above Rangers and level on points with Hamilton Academical as the trio battle it out to finish top of the bottom six.

Meanwhile, it was a less than fruitful afternoon for Spartans as they were thrashed 5-0 by league leaders Glasgow City.