On Sunday we take on Spartans at Ainslie Park – following our defeat against Celtic in the SWPL Cup.
Dean Gibson’s side will be hoping this game is the perfect way to bounce back.
The Opposition
Spartans currently sit 7th in the Parks Motor Group SWPL 1 table, seven points behind Hibs. So far this season, Spartans have recorded one victory, five draws, and three defeats in the league.
Last Sunday, Spartans were also in SWPL Cup action as they were defeated 3-0 by Glasgow City.
Our last encounter with Spartans was on the opening day of the league season where we recorded a 3-0 victory at the Tony Macaroni Arena. Gibson and his side will be hoping for another impressive performance this weekend.
Manager’s Notes
Dean Gibson has given some insight on how the team are feeling heading into Sunday and provided an update on the squad.
“We are feeling good and in high spirits coming into the game. Although the result was bitterly disappointing last week, the performance was excellent and that is something we need to take confidence from. We have prepared well, and the players have all been in excellent form to bounce back mentally from a difficult outcome in the semi-final.
“When you lose a game of football, you instantly want to play the next one to try and put it right. Thankfully, the international break has not come this week and it has allowed us to do that. We know Spartans will be feeling the same way, so we must stay focussed on trying our best to get three points.
“Winning 3-0 on the opening day of the season against Spartans was a good result and we were unfortunate not to score another couple, but in truth, we probably could have played better in possession that day. This Sunday we are hoping for the same work ethic but a little more quality and composure on the ball. If we do that, we have every chance of winning the game.
“The squad is the same as last week, we have no new injury worries which is always good. Mickey (Michaela McAlonie) is another week closer to full fitness which is a bonus.”
From the Changing Room
Siobhan Hunter has shared her thoughts on the upcoming fixture and is looking forward to being back at Ainslie Park.
“We are all excited. I think last week gave us the belief and fight we want every week. We cherish big games, and this is another one to look forward to. It is always tough playing Spartans, but the belief is there within the squad, and we want to get the win over them and take us closer to the top three.
“These are the games you need following a defeat - a tough game. We learn from last Sunday’s game and try to take the positives into this Sunday and look for a good result. Spartans are also in the same situation so it should be a good and exciting game.
“Spartans have improved and developed since the first game of the season, I think they will give 100% every time. Maybe a little extra because it is us, but they have a good young and experienced squad that has been together for a long time. They are a team that are very tight and hard to break down so the game will not be easy. We need to be patient but also be ready to perform at our best to be able to get a result.”
“I believe the performance in the first game (of the Parks Motor Group SWPL 1 season) was something we have needed against Spartans. It is usually a 1-0 or close draw, so it was important for us to get that result right at the start. But like I say, that was a while back and they have improved but we also have. It should be a tight game, but we need players to be brave and be counted. Each player is important to us and if we are at our best on the day, I have no doubts we get the win.
“I think being back in Edinburgh for a game is good and hopefully, with it being in Edinburgh, we can get the fans along to support us. It is a big pitch (at Ainslie Park) and nice and wide which we love to use to our advantage, so yeah, looking forward to the game for sure.”
Be Part of the Action
The game will kick-off at 13:00 on Sunday, live at Ainslie Park.
Fans will be able to attend the match in person by purchasing a ticket via Spartans’ Fanbase account.
Those under the age of 16 will be granted free entry.
