Hibs’ Ladies boss looking for side to make impact

HIBERNIAN Ladies manager Willie Kirk has today warned his players that it’s time to put all their hard work into practice as the club gear up for the new season.

The Hibees face Aberdeen at Albyn Park, Broxburn tomorrow (kick-off 2.00pm) in the opening fixture of the new Scottish Women’s Premier League campaign .

And boss Kirk believes his young side have all the talent necessary to make a big impact this term.

He said: “Our squad is perhaps the youngest we’ve ever had but, make no mistake, it’s full of quality.

“We have tried to bring in players that will be the future of Hibernian Football Club rather than a quick-fix for the year ahead, but with any young players there is always going to be inconsistency.

“It’s my job, along with my coaching staff, to ensure those instances are few and far between. More importantly, it’s about guiding the youngster through a tough patch and helping them learn from it.

“It’s not only important that we start the new season well; it’s essential if we are to fulfil our ambitions this term.

“Winning breeds confidence and just as losing can become a habit, so too does winning.

“Having the desire, fight, passion, commitment and belief to go out and give your all week-in-week-out is what makes a player a winner.

“Only time will tell if we have enough players in our squad with that hunger to be the best.

“One thing that I’m certain of, however, is that each and every one of my players has the quality to succeed in this game.

“If pre-season training is anything to go by then the dedication and commitment from all of the girls augurs well for the campaign ahead of us. It’s now time to put all of that hard work undertaken into practice.”

Meanwhile, Hutchison Vale face newcomers Kilwinning Sports Club at Spartans Academy (kick-off 3:00pm) and aim to build on a strong pre-season campaign.

Hutchie have drawn with both Hibs and Spartans during the close season and will fancy their chances of taking three points from this season’s opener.

Elsewhere, Spartans look to build upon their Scottish Women’s Premier League Cup victory against Falkirk when they take on Hamilton Academical at John Cumming Stadium, Carluke (kick-off 2.15pm).