Match programme vs Spartans 28th April

vs SPARTANS

Sunday 28th April 2019 / 13:00

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CONTENTS

CLUB DIRECTORY

Manager - Grant Scott Assistant Coach - Stewart McGuire Goalkeeping Coach - Chris Flockhart Secretary - Karen McEwan General Manager - Florence Haines Physiotherapist - Claire Rankin Masseuse - Laura Burns Chaplin - Catriona Lamont Match Reports - Robbie Castle Club Photographer - Craig Doyle Video Support - Andrew Mobberley, Amy Yorkston

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HONOURS

SWPL 03/04, 05/06, 06/07 Scottish Cup 03, 05, 07, 08, 10, 16, 17, 18 SWPL Cup 05, 07, 11, 16, 17, 18

CONTACT

Website - www. hiberniancommunityfoundation.org.uk Twitter - @hibsladies Instagram - hibsladies Phone - 0131 656 7062 Address Hibernian Community Foundation Easter Road Stadium 12 Albion Place Edinburgh EH7 5DG

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PROGRAMME

Editor - Craig Doyle Sub Editor - Florence Haines Written Content - Grant Scott, Joelle Murray, Craig Doyle, Florence Haines, Dougie Penman, Jenna Fife, Lizzie Arnot Images - Craig Doyle

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THE EDITOR

THE

EDITOR WELCOME BACK TO AINSLIE PARK AS WE BEGIN OUR SECOND ROUND OF SWPL1 FIXTURES WITH AN EDINBURGH DERBY AGAINST SPARTANS.

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he last eight days have been absolutely full-on for the club both on and off the pitch. With two home fixtures in the space of four days it has been an enormous challenge organising everyone to get the content together for the two match programmes that we have put out. I have to extend my thanks to all the regular contributors who have had to work double time on very short deadlines to bring you this content, particularly Joelle who emailed in her column in the early hours of Saturday morning!

In today's issue we have a feature length interview with Hibernian's number 1 and Scotland international Jenna Fife. She shares an intriguing insight into the importance of working hard and having patience in waiting for opportunities to arrive. I'm sure you'll find her story to be fascinating read. Our ex Hibernian player today is none other than current Manchester United attacker Lizzie Arnot, fresh from writing her own little bit of history down South. We also have updates from our U23 Squad brought to us by Dougie Penman and a selection of our favourite photos from the SWPL 1 league matches against Forfar Farmington and Stirling University.

One of the key events over the last week was the inclusion of three of our talented U23 squad players in the first team to face Stirling University. I received a call from

Florence ahead of the match on Wednesday highlighting that the club were really keen on promoting the call-ups and asking how we could best get the message out on Twitter.

Personally I found it particularly pleasing as it showed me that everyone within the club understands the value of using our social media. Those with a keen eye will have noted the flurry of activity on Thursday morning highlighting our U23 stars and giving some visibility to the player pathway in place at the club. The feedback from Thursday has been overwhelmingly positive and I feel it has underlined the progress being made both on and off the pitch.

On the subject of Twitter it is my hope that we can now begin to expand our content out to include more news from other teams within the club. We posted a few tweets related to our U23 squad last week and I would like to expand on that to include our other academy outfits. It has not escaped my attention that there are a lot of great things happening at Hibernian and many of them are never broadcast to a wider audience. I want to drive that change over social media and help our players and coaches get the exposure they deserve.

Enjoy the game today.

Craig Doyle 5

THE BIG PICTURE

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THE BIG PICTURE

KIRSTY MORRISON AND SHANNON LEISHMAN POSE FOR A PHOTO WITH DEBUTANTS HOLLY AITCHISON, JADE MENZIES AND RIA MCCAFFERTY BEFORE THE MATCH AGAINST STIRLING UNIVERSITY.

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THE MANAGER

GRANT

SCOTT GOOD AFTERNOON AND WELCOME TO AINSLIE PARK FOR THE THIRD EDINBURGH DERBY OF THE SEASON.

W

e arrive at Ainslie Park today to face what we expect to be a very tough third match in 8-days against our opponents Spartans.

the team showed. The players maintained, possibly increased their intensity after a small change of shape in the second half and went on to secure a thoroughly deserved victory.

As I've previously said of Spartans, they provide one of the toughest tests in the league with their structure, competitiveness and threat going forward so once again we'll have to be on our game to obtain a favourable result.

Speaking of 'being on our game', I've been very impressed with our performances over the first two games of this week. Firstly away to Forfar last Sunday was possibly as fluent a performance as we've put in this season. Right from the start we looked the more powerful side, dictating the play, attacking with incredible pace and precision and thankfully scoring the goals that our play deserved.

Notable moments across the two games were a hat-trick for Jamie-Lee Napier in Forfar, Colette Cavanagh, Kirsty Morrison (x2), Chelsea Cornet and Cailin Michie all opening their competitive scoring accounts the club this season. So "SPARTANS PROVIDE for we're adding goals from all over ONE OF THE the pitch which is very pleasing.

TOUGHEST TESTS IN THE LEAGUE WITH THEIR STRUCTURE, COMPETITIVENESS AND THREAT GOING FORWARD SO ONCE AGAIN WE'LL HAVE TO BE ON OUR GAME."

Wednesday night saw a tighter score line but apart from some, what I'd describe as loose play in the final third, I was just as happy with the performance. That match saw a very similar pattern to the Forfar game with some great attacking play, total control of the football and territory in the game. In games when a team is in total control without having scored it is very easy to panic. One of the pleasing factors for me was the composure

On Sunday academy graduate Kirsty Morrison scoring was pleasing as she's been waiting for a goal in her first full season as a first team player but her overall performance was impressive. Kirsty is now starting to find her place in the squad and we hope she'll kick on from here. Wednesday saw us give the opportunity to three players from our under 23s squad to gain first team experience. All three having trained with us in recent weeks and deserving of some minutes on the pitch. So well done to Jade Menzies, Ria McCafferty and Holly Aitchison.

Enjoy the match.

Grant Scott 9

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THE CAPTAIN

JOELLE

MURRAY WELCOME TO BACK TO AINSLIE PARK FOR OUR THIRD GAME IN THE SPACE OF EIGHT DAYS AS WE TAKE ON SPARTANS ONCE AGAIN.

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he games are coming thick and fast so let me give you a brief summary of the two we have just played in quick succession.

We have been talking recently about our new signings however a player I have been impressed with this season is Kirsty Morrison who stepped up from our U23’s squad. Kirsty is a fantastically talented player and is extremely receptive and willing to learn. Kirsty scored her first two goals for the senior team last week against Forfar and I have no doubt that there will be many more to come for this upcoming young talent.

We travelled to Station Park on a gloriously sunny Easter Sunday to face Forfar. Our previous two games away to Forfar ended in narrow victories so we knew we had to be at the top of our game against a team who have proven to be hard to break down in the past.

We started the game very well and got our first goal in the first 10 minutes. We were arguably " A PLAYER I HAVE playing our best football of BEEN IMPRESSED the season with fantastic movement through the middle WITH THIS and our forwards being clinical SEASON IS KIRSTY in front of goal. It was 5-0 at half MORRISON WHO time and after another 3 goals in the second half the game STEPPED UP FROM ended 8-0. A very pleasing result OUR U23’S and performance meant we all SQUAD." travelled down to the capital with smiles on our faces.

There was no time to catch our breath because on Wednesday evening we welcomed Stirling to Peffermill to play our second game in 4 days. We started well but didn’t take our chances meaning that we went in 0-0 at half time. A combination of Stirling being so disciplined and compact and our poor finishing and decision making in the final third proved for a frustrating 70 minutes. However in the 72nd minute Cailin produced a 35 yard screamer which settled the nerves and we went on to win 3-0 and pick up all three points.

Due to injuries Grant had the opportunity to call up some of our U23’s players on Wednesday evening. Ria McCafferty, Holly Aitchison and Jade Menzies were all given the opportunity to be part of the senior squad for the first time, a fantastic honour in itself and recognition for their hard work and performances for our U23’s. Not only were they part of the squad but they all obtained game time which I think shows that the academy pathway at the club is working and continuing to produce talented players for the senior squad which ultimately is it's purpose.

Finally, I hope you enjoy today’s game and thanks as always for your continued support.

Joelle Murray 11

MATCH ACTION

FORFAR FARM 0 HIBERNIAN 8 SWPL 1 Sun 21st Apr Station Park

FORFAR FARMINGTON 13 McNicoll 3 White 5 Paterson 6 McGinley 8 Stewart (Robb 66) 9 Smith (McPherson 46) 10 Davidson 11 Bruce 16 Kilcoyne (Deubal 80) 17 Cowper 19 Hassett (Brough 69)

Subs Robb, McPherson, Deubal, Williamson, Brough Goals

HIBERNIAN

1 Fife 3 Napier 8 Michie 11 Cavanagh 15 Gallacher (Leishman 66) 16 Notley 17 Murray (Hunter 69) 19 Cornet (Williamson 46) 23 Small 29 Morrison (Tweedie 66) 32 Reilly Subs Currie, Leishman, Hunter, Williamson, Tweedie, McGregor Goals Napier 13, 27, 89 Morrison 19, 46 Cornet 31 Cavanagh 40 Reilly 83

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MATCH ACTION

KEY MOMENT

Kirsty Morrison scored her first senior goal for the club after being played in by Napier. The 17-year-old calmly dispatched a low effort by McNicoll in the Forfar Farmington goal to give Hibs a 2-0 lead.

ACCOUNTS OPENED

A number of players opened their goal scoring accounts for the season. Cavanagh and Morrison scored their first goals for the club, while Cornet netted for the first time this season.

WHO SAID WHAT?

“It was a good game for us and a great performance. Obviously with the heat it was hard but good for us to get the three points and the win.”

KIRSTY MORRISON

THE GAFFER

“It's always good to see when there's multiple scorers and when we look at players like Jamie-Lee getting another three and Kirsty getting a couple of competitive goals now, the mobility was a constant threat and the finishing was very good today.”

PRESS REACTION

“Kirsty Morrison, a Jamie-Lee Napier brace, Chelsea Cornet effort and Colette Cavanagh volley made it 5-0 at half-time. Just 45 seconds into the second half Morrison doubled her tally and although Hannah Stewart hit the bar for the hosts, Kirsten Reilly made it 7-0 and Napier completed her hat-trick."

SHEKICKS.NET

SWPL 1 RESULTS

Glasgow City 8-0 Motherwell Spartans 0-1 Rangers Stirling University 0-4 Celtic

MATCH ACTION

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

JENNA

FIFE

THE HIBERNIAN GOALKEEPER SHARES HER THOUGHTS ON HER RISE TO NUMBER ONE AT HIBS AND BECOMING PART OF THE SCOTLAND SETUP. You have grown up in the Edinburgh area correct?

Where exactly did you grow up and where did you go to school?

JF: Yes, I grew up in Edinburgh and went to Corstorphine Primary School and Craigmount High School.

When were you first introduced to football and what was the first team that you played for?

JF: I was first introduced to football at primary school, where I played for the primary school team from P4 up until P7. This was a mixed boys and girls team and my first experience of football.

Give us a little insight into your football background. What was the first club that you joined?

JF: After playing for my primary school team, I moved to club football with Edinburgh City girls

where Lizzie Arnot was also playing at the time. I played here for a year before moving to Murieston United where I played for six years.

You signed for Hibernian

"IT WAS A BIG STEP GOING FROM YOUTH FOOTBALL TO ONE OF THE BEST SENIOR CLUBS IN THE COUNTRY. COMING INTO THE SQUAD AND WORKING WITH SHANNON WAS GREAT." at the start of 2013. What made Hibernian the right place for you to continue your football career?

JF: Hibs were a really strong team and under

good management with Willie Kirk and Chris Roberts. After being selected for youth Scotland squads, I decided it was time to move into senior football and Hibs was the right step. Working alongside some very good goalkeepers such as Shannon Lynn and Hannah Reid and coaches such as Ian McCaldon really helped my development at this stage in my career.

How did it feel arriving at Hibernian as a young goalkeeper coming into the squad behind an established senior keeper like Shannon Lynn?

JF: It was a big step going from youth football to one of the best senior clubs in the country. Coming into the squad and working with Shannon was great, she had such a positive influence on me and helped me massively when I first joined the team, as did Hannah who was already part of the first team squad at the time.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

With her being one of the best goalkeepers in Scotland, I learnt so much from training with her and she was a big role model for me.

You had a fairly dramatic debut against Hamilton in 2013. Can you talk us through the circumstances leading up to the game and the match itself?

JF: At this time Hannah had been loaned out to another club and Shannon had been offered a move to Chelsea. When Shannon accept this move, Hannah was unavailable as she was still signed with another club so this left me to play in goals. I was nervous to start my first senior team game only 3 games into the season but we won 3-2 after extra time and I saved a penalty so it ended up being a successful day for me personally and also for the team.

Have you always played as a goalkeeper?

JF: I played as an outfield player until I was playing at under 15s with Murieston.

The goalkeeper was unavailable to play so I went in goals and loved it so much that I stayed in and I've not looked back since! Although I do still like the occasional run about

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outfield at training.

You have had an interesting career path at youth level with Scotland. You barely featured on the pitch at U17 and U19 levels but you are now a regular choice with the senior team. How much does that speak volumes

"I PLAYED AS AN OUTFIELD PLAYER UNTIL I WAS PLAYING AT UNDER 15S WITH MURIESTON. THE GOALKEEPER WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PLAY SO I WENT IN GOALS AND LOVED IT SO MUCH THAT I STAYED IN AND I'VE NOT LOOKED BACK SINCE!" about the number of high quality young goalkeepers coming through the Scottish system?

JF: There were some great goalkeepers who I played with during my time at youth international squads which meant there was

so much competition for places. At the time, I never managed to establish myself as first choice which I think was justified at that point due to the talent and experience of the other goalkeepers. I have worked extremely hard during my time in these squads and after I left the under 19s squad. Luckily, this has paid off and I have been part of the senior team recently which has been amazing. Competition for places is tough, especially with current goalkeepers and young goalkeepers progressing up through the youth levels.

As a goalkeeper who has waited patiently and continued to work hard to earn an opportunity to impress what message would you send out to any young players who may be feeling frustrated at not getting as many minutes at the moment as they might like?

JF: I would say patience and hard work are key.

Opportunities will arise and it is all about taking these chances when they come.

Also just enjoy what you're doing as well, there is no point in playing football and not enjoying it, no matter the circumstances.

Enjoyment is key.

In the last few years

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

you have broken into the senior national team. How does it feel to be involved as part of arguably the best group of players the country has ever produced?

JF: It's unbelievable, I am so grateful to be in the position I am just now and to be part of such a special team is such an honour.

Not only playing alongside probably the best players the county has ever produced, but arguably some of the best players in the world at the moment is amazing and I can’t wait to see what's next for this team.

Shelley Kerr handed you your first start for Scotland in a friendly against Iceland in January. How did it feel to have the trust of the nation placed within your hands for the first time?

JF: It was a great experience getting my first international start and something I will never forget. I am grateful for the opportunities Shelley has given me since I've been in the squad and it gives me a lot of confidence.

Playing in international games is different and I learn a lot, not only when I play, but when I’m away on camp and training with the squad.

You had your second start just over a month ago in the Algarve Cup match against Denmark.

A clean sheet and your first Scotland victory. Can you talk us through that experience?

JF: It was great to start

"I AM GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITIES SHELLEY HAS GIVEN ME SINCE I'VE BEEN IN THE SQUAD AND IT GIVES ME A LOT OF CONFIDENCE. PLAYING IN INTERNATIONAL GAMES IS DIFFERENT AND I LEARN A LOT, NOT ONLY WHEN I PLAY, BUT WHEN I’M AWAY ON CAMP." another game in the Algarve Cup. Denmark are a really strong side with some world class players so it was always going to be a hard game. I was delighted to get a clean sheet and thought we played really well as a team

and deserved the victory.

Another great experience which I gained and learnt a lot from.

A few weeks ago Scotland turned heads with a 1-0 victory over Brazil in a friendly over in Spain.

You didn't feature but as part of the team how big was that result for Scottish football and what was the mood in the camp like after the game?

JF: As you can probably imagine, the mood in camp was great after that game. To beat Brazil put out a massive statement to everyone that this team is going places and that we should not be underestimated. There were big performances from everyone who played that day and it just shows how far this team has come in the past couple of years. It was a great way to end our penultimate friendly before heading out to the World Cup in June.

The World Cup is on the horizon and the Scotland squad will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

What would it mean to you to be on the plane to France?

JF: Obviously it would mean the world to be included in the team going to the

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"MIEDEMA IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE BEST PLAYERS I HAVE EVER PLAYED AGAINST. I PLAYED AGAINST HER IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WHEN WE PLAYED BAYERN MUNICH AND ALSO AT THE UNDER 19 EURO FINALS WHERE SHE WAS PLAYING FOR THE NETHERLANDS."

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

World Cup. Going to the World Cup is something you dream of as a kid and for this to become a reality it would be unbelievable and my biggest personal achievement to date. It's a waiting game at the moment so until then I am working hard and playing as well as I can in club games to give myself the best possible chance of this dream becoming a reality.

Moving on to domestic football with Hibernian.

How do you feel the season has gone thus far?

JF: Think it was a slow start for us at the start of the season with a 0-0 draw with Spartans which was very disappointing, However, since then things have seemed to click and we are playing a lot better.

There has been quite a turnaround in players over the past year so I think for us it's about recognising our strengths as a team and understanding how everyone plays. In recent weeks we have been playing really good football which is reflected in some of the scores we have had.

Also with only conceding 2 goals so far this season it shows that defensively we have been really strong and it is important to maintain this for the rest of

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the season.

The club recently reached it's sixth successive league cup final and will be looking to win it for the fourth time in a row.

Glasgow City await in the final. What are your thoughts going into that game?

JF: As always against

"THERE HAS BEEN QUITE A TURNAROUND IN PLAYERS OVER THE PAST YEAR SO I THINK FOR US IT'S ABOUT RECOGNISING OUR STRENGTHS AS A TEAM AND UNDERSTANDING HOW EVERYONE PLAYS." Glasgow City, we know it's going to be a really tough game. They have a really strong squad full of very experienced and talented players. However, as we have proven in the last six consecutive cup campaigns, we are more than capable of retaining the trophy and we are all confident we can do this

going into the game on the 10th of May. In 2016 Hibernian finally ended Glasgow City's dominance in cup competitions where they had won four successive League Cups and five consecutive Scottish Cups. Having come close in previous finals how important was it to finally get over the line by bringing home a trophy?

JF: Yeah it was massively important and we were delighted to win our first cup in a number of years.

We have shown this wasn’t just a one hit wonder by going on to win the next five cup competitions which were great to be involved in.

You have been instrumental in Hibernian's success over the last few seasons winning both the SWPL Cup and Scottish Cup in each of the last three season. What has been the biggest highlight for you personally over that time?

JF: It's really hard to pick out a specific moment.

Every time we win a cup it's really special so although not one stands out as a highlight, they were all highlights with hopefully

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

many more to come.

Do you have any personal goals or objectives for this season?

JF: Obviously my biggest personal goal is to be selected for the World Cup squad but also continue to be selected beyond this into the Euro qualifiers which begin in August.

As well as this, it's just to play as well as I can domestically and help Hibs to a league title which would be great.

Most people have a club that they support or follow. Who is your team and why?

JF: I am a big Hearts fan and have supported them since I was very young.

When I grew up, I was surrounded by lots of Hearts fans and where I was brought up, Hearts were my local team. When I was 10, I went to the 2006 cup semi-final and final where Hearts won the Scottish Cup. I still remember this game like it was yesterday and it is still one of the best games I have been to, so after this I became a Hearts fan and have been ever since. I am also a big Liverpool fan and try to get down to games when I can.

Do you have any

footballing role models or inspirations from the professional game or that you have played with?

JF: When I was growing up, women’s football wasn’t as big as it is at the moment so I didn’t get

"WHEN I JOINED HIBS AND STARTED TO TRAIN WITH GOALKEEPERS LIKE SHANNON LYNN, SHE BECAME A BIG ROLE MODEL. I ALSO REMEMBER WATCHING HOPE SOLO PLAYING FOR USA AND SHE QUICKLY BECAME A BIG ROLE MODEL OF MINE." the opportunity to watch many female games or have any specific female role models. In the early days my biggest role model was Craig Gordon and, although not a GK, I loved Steven Gerrard.

However, when I joined

Hibs and started to train with goalkeepers like Shannon Lynn, she became a big role model. I also remember watching Hope Solo playing for USA and she quickly became a big role model of mine.

Gloves and boots. What are you wearing this season?

JF: I wear Precision gloves and they are the best gloves I have ever worn.

They make specific women fit gloves which are really good and fit so great that I would highly recommend them. At the moment I am wearing Adidas Predator boots but I am also a fan of Nike boots.

Do you have any plans to stay involved in football beyond your playing career? Coaching, management etc?

JF: Possibly, I’m not sure at this moment in time and it is something I may look to get involved with in the future.

You are also engaged in a little part-time coaching at the moment though?

JF: I currently work for both the SFA and the council.

Through the SFA I am the goalkeeper coach for the under 14s and under 16s regional squads which has been great since I joined.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW - JENNA FIFE

It's great working with such talented goalkeepers, who definitely have the potential to be playing for Scotland in the future.

I also do coaching work through the council which involves coaching the female goalkeepers at an organisation called Sports Academy, which players such as Lizzie Arnot and Cailin Michie were part of growing up, showing how much these sessions can help the development of young girls involved in football. Additionally, I also take the goalkeepers at the Edinburgh P7 select, where the best football players in P7 across Edinburgh come to train, which again is great working with such talented and hard working goalkeepers.

Away from the pitch, you were also a student.

What did you study and where?

JF: I studied an honours degree in Sport And Exercise Science at Edinburgh Napier University where I graduated last August.

Who are the best players you have played alongside and against?

JF: I have played with and against some really good players. I would have to say Caroline Weir

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when I played with her at Hibs and at the moment for Scotland. She is an unbelievable player and one of the best in the world I would say. Miedema is probably one of the best players I have ever played against. I played against her in the Champions League when we played

"I DO COACHING WORK THROUGH THE COUNCIL WHICH INVOLVES COACHING THE FEMALE GOALKEEPERS AT AN ORGANISATION CALLED SPORTS ACADEMY, WHICH PLAYERS SUCH AS LIZZIE ARNOT AND CAILIN MICHIE WERE PART OF GROWING UP." Bayern Munich and also at the under 19s Euro finals where she was playing for the Netherlands.

Can you tell us something about yourself that we don't know?

JF: I can’t go a week without a Nandos.

Who is the most famous person you have ever met?

JF: I have taken a selfie with Usain Bolt if that counts?

Otherwise I have not really met anyone else very famous.

Music. Who do you enjoy listening to and what is the best gig you have ever been to?

JF: I'm loving Lewis Capaldi at the moment. He’s on repeat these days. Other than him I don’t really have a specific artist that I always listen to. I just enjoy whatever song is out and good. I'm a fan of Ed Sheeran too so probably one of his gigs has to be the best. I have also seen Calvin Harris and that was amazing as well.

What is your all time favourite movie?

JF: I would probably have to say White Chicks, Although I do love the Greatest Showman as well.

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CLUB NEWS

HIBS

NEWS U19 EURO FINALS FIXTURES UEFA have now confirmed the full schedule for the upcoming Women's Under-19 Championships to be hosted in Scotland between 16th July and 28th July.

As hosts Scotland have qualified automatically and have been placed in Group A alongside the Netherlands, Norway and France. All three of Scotland's group fixtures will take place at the Glasgow venues of St Mirren Park and Firhill Stadium.

A trio of Hibernian players have been involved in recent Scotland U-19 squads and will hope to be selected again for the Finals this summer.

Attackers Jamie-Lee Napier, Lauren Davidson and Kirsty Morrison all featured in the two behind closed doors friendly matches against England at Oriam.

MURRAY GETS HANDS ON WORLD CUP Hibernian captain Joelle Murray got her hands on the World Cup trophy this past week as it arrived in Edinburgh as part of the FIFA trophy tour.

Matchday 1 - 16/7 - KO 19:30 @St Mirren Park Scotland vs France Matchday 2 - 19/7 - KO 19:30 @Firhill Stadium Scotland vs Norway Matchday 3 - 22/7 - KO 19:30 @St Mirren Park Scotland vs Netherlands The semi-finals take place on 25/7 alongside the U-20 WC Play-off with the final being held on 28/7 at St Mirren Park.

Murray was joined by SWNT manager Shelley Kerr, Glasgow City goalkeeper Lee Alexander, Scottish football legend Julie Fleeting and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as the trophy went on display at Edinburgh Castle on Thursday.

The SWNT team will make a final appearance at Hampden Park on May 28th taking on fellow World Cup debutants Jamaica with both Joelle Murray and Jenna Fife looking to be part of Shelley Kerr's final squad for France.

FISH ON LOAN TO ST JOHNSTONE

After a successful trial period Ashley Fish has signed on loan for St Johnstone. The striker has already found the net five times for the Perth based club in just two games including scoring the winner away to Kilmarnock and netting four times against Hutchison Vale last weekend.

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SPARTANS

A

fter the first round of fixtures our city rivals sit 5th in the table equal on points with 4th placed Rangers, An opening day stalemate against Hibernian got the season off to a positive start however high scoring defeats to Glasgow City and Celtic offered warning signs, Debbi McCulloch has been quick to right the ship though with three wins on the bounce before a narrow home defeat to Rangers last time out. There stand-out performance however came in the SWPL Cup quarter-final away to Motherwell where they crushed the hosts inside the opening 45 minutes with five goals.

McAlonie, Elena Santoyo-Brown and Tara McGonigle. McCulloch has a varied squad at her disposal allowing her to utilise different defensive and attacking approaches. Goals have come from all over the team and on the opening day of the season Spartans showed that they are more than capable of defending as a unit with discipline.

The team this season features a number of highly rated young players including Scotland U19 internationals Michaela

Spartans will be hopeful of replicating their draw against Hibs from earlier in the season or even better on Sunday afternoon.

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The Spartans squad was enhanced in January with the arrival of striker Beth McKay from Hibernian and 15 year old Scotland U17 captain Robyn McCafferty from Hibernian U23. Midfielder Rachel Walkingshaw has departed for Hearts.

THE OPPOSITION - SPARTANS

13 RACHEL HARRISON

Impressive goalkeeper earned recent Scotland call-up.

17 ELENA SANTOYO-BROWN

The Scotland U19 striker is one of a number of dangerous attacking options. A late chance on the opening day almost saw Santoyo-Brown steal all three points against Hibernian.

14 TEGAN REYNOLDS

Midfielder hit the bar against Hibs early in the SWPL cup semi-final.

10 BETH MCKAY

Ex Hibernian striker scored a hat-trick against Motherwell.

7 DEBBI MCCULLOCH

McCulloch returned to the Spartans hot seat for the second half of the 2018 season with Spartans rooted to the bottom of the SWPL1 table. She comfortably lifted the young side away from relegation and has shown her intent already in 2019 of building her team into one that can earn a top-half finish,

MICHAELA MCALONIE

The 17-year-old Scotland U19 midfielder is view as a real prospect but is already cementing her position as one of Spartans key players. She already has two goals this season.

9 RONAIGH DOUGLAS Hard-working midfielder impressed on opening day.

5 DION MCMAHON Centre back at the heart of the Spartans defensive unit.

LAST MEETING SPARTANS 0 HIBERNIAN 3

The teams last met only a fortnight ago in the SWPL Cup semi-final at Broadwood Stadium.

While Spartans almost took the lead through an early Tegan Reynolds strike the hit the cross bar it was Lauren Davidson that opened the scoring as the ball fell to her six yards out from a corner. Harrison in the Spartans goal made a string of spectacular saves to keep Spartans in the game but Jamie-Lee Napier added a second after Gallacher presented her with a tap-in and Lia Tweedie put the game beyond doubt with a late strike to make it 3-0.

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MATCH ACTION

HIBERNIAN 3 STIRLING UNI 0 SWPL 1 Wed 24th Apr Peffermill

HIBERNIAN 1 2 3 4 8 9 15 16 17 23 32

Fife Williamson (Cavanagh 52) Napier (Leishman 80) Hunter Michie Tweedie (McCafferty 69) Gallacher (Aitchison 80) Notley Murray Small (Menzies 80) Reilly

Subs Currie, Leishman, Cavanagh, Aitchiman, McCafferty, Menzies, McGregor Goals Michie Cavanagh Reilly

STIRLING UNIVERSITY 1 Sjogerud 2 Connor 4 Murphy 6 Fulton (Kerr 77) 7 Mason (Higgins 23) 9 Callaghan 10 Lyons (Gray 79) 11 Welch 13 Simpson 17 Kim (Blues 85) 18 Falconer

Subs Higgins, Gray, Kerr, Blues Goals

37

MATCH ACTION

KEY MOMENT

Michie's 72nd minute strike from all of 35 yards finally broke the Stirling University's defensive resistance.

The full-back took a touch before unleashing a thunderbolt high into Sjogerud's goal.

U23 CALL UPS

Ria McCafferty, Holly Aitchison and Jade Menzies all made their senior debuts as they arrived from the U23 squad to provide cover due to injuries and absences.

WHO SAID WHAT?

“Stirling, credit to them, did really well sitting in against us. They had an organised couple of lines of defence and they tried to catch us on the counter which nearly came off a few times.”

CAILIN MICHIE

PRESS REACTION

“Hibernian cut Glasgow City’s lead in the SBS SWPL 1 to two points from a game more, after bottom of the table Stirling University had held out for more than 70 minutes before losing 3-0."

SHEKICKS.NET

THE GAFFER

“Really tough match, credit to Stirling. We've seen them once pre season and once in the cup and I thought today they were much better organised, far more disciplined and worked very hard.”

MATCH ACTION

39

40

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

LIZZIE

ARNOT THE MANCHESTER UNITED ATTACKER REFLECTS ON HER DEVASTATING INJURY AND HER INCREDIBLE RISE SINCE RETURNING TO FITNESS. Where did you start your football career and what were your early years in the game like?

LA: My earliest memories were playing with my friends at school and after school.

I first started playing for Edinburgh City boys as many of my friends played for them so it was an enjoyable time. When it was time to move to girls football I moved to Hutchie Vale.

You arrived at Hibs in 2012 and spent a total of six years at the club.

What were your key motivations for coming to Hibernian?

LA: It felt it was the right time to move to Hibs as I could see a clear path for my development to play in the first team. I knew I'd be challenged which I wanted and also knew I would be developed by quality coaches.

During your time at Hibernian the club saw plenty of success on the pitch. What did you win

and how did it feel?

LA: It was great to be part of a successful team for consecutive years. We won the league cup twice and Scottish cup twice too! They were great memories. It was disappointing to miss out on the league but I'm still

"I KNEW I'D BE CHALLENGED AT HIBERNIAN, WHICH I WANTED AND ALSO KNEW I WOULD BE DEVELOPED

BY QUALITY COACHES." hoping to see the girls win it soon!

Looking back at your time with Hibernian what is your favourite memory of being part of the club?

LA: Oh that's a tough one as we had some great times.

I think winning the Scottish Cup on penalties was a highlight as it is always more dramatic when it goes to penalties. Another highlight was winning the league cup 9-0 against Celtic as it was a great team performance but also on a personal level scoring 5 in a final doesn't happen often but it also meant more because I wasn't long back from injury after being out for a year.

One of your toughest moments at the club came during 2017 when you suffered a cruciate ligament injury in training which saw you sidelined for fourteen months.

Can you shed a little light on what happened and whether you knew right away that it was a serious injury?

LA: It was a tough time and not a nice memory. Due to the circumstances of how it happened I was scared it was serious but I tried to have hope it wasn't, sadly though it was bad news.

However I can't be more

41

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

thankful for the support from my coaches and team mates and also the support I got through my rehab was amazing from the institute and was a massive help and something I am very grateful for to get me back fit and strong.

At the time of the injury you were undoubtedly a rising star and starting to attract attention from some big clubs. On top of that you no doubt had the prospects of being in the Scotland squad for their first ever major tournament at the European Championships to look forward to. What was going through your mind when the realisation hit that you were going to be out long term with your short term future suddenly changing so dramatically?

LA: It was a tough time that's for sure and initially all I could think of was why?

But I always remained positive and focussed on the things I could control, for example my rehab. I always thought things happen for a reason and was continually wondering what the reason was and I truly believe I am in the right place at the right time and that may have been different. I learnt a lot during my rehab and it has only made me stronger as a

42

person.

Did you have any inspirations or people around you that helped you to stay focussed on the road to recovery?

LA: My family and friends were a massive support for me and always kept my spirits high. People who had gone through the same injury sent kind messages

"I CAN'T BE MORE THANKFUL FOR THE SUPPORT FROM MY COACHES AND TEAM MATES AND ALSO THE SUPPORT I GOT THROUGH MY REHAB WAS AMAZING FROM THE INSTITUTE." of support which were a big help. I could also look up to many international team mates such as Fiona Brown and Rachel Corsie who had also gone through the same injury and came out on top which gave me motivation and belief. Liam, my coach at the institute who took me through my rehab made a real difference too as he

went the extra mile to get me back fitter and stronger.

Your return from injury saw you pick up almost where you left off. How did it feel when you stepped back onto the pitch for the first time?

LA: It was nerve racking but also a very proud moment! I worked so hard to get back and it was just amazing to finally be back on the pitch doing what I love.

One of our favourite moments from your career came against Celtic in the SWPL Cup Final where you scored an unbelievable five goals in a 9-0 victory. What are your thoughts on what was both an incredible individual performance but also one of best collective efforts from a Hibernian team in recent memory?

LA: Yeah as mentioned in my highlights it was such a strong team performance and there was a lot of talent in the team. I was lucky enough to be back from injury and be in the right place at the right time to score. It was a special moment for everyone in the team to be involved in a final like that!

You left Hibernian for Manchester United just

43

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

44

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

45

46

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

a few weeks later. Can you put into words your feelings when you initially were told that Manchester United were interested in you? Was there a sense of relief or even justice that after being denied by the injury that everything was suddenly happening for you again?

LA: Yeah it was honestly a dream come true as clichĂŠ as it sounds. I had aspired to be a professional since I was young and to get the opportunity to play for such a big club like Manchester United was just amazing! As previously mentioned I feel things happen for a reason and all my hard work had paid off.

There is no saying 'no' to a club of the size of Manchester United is there? Did you feel the time was right to move on from Hibernian in a bid to take your game to the next level and test yourself playing on a bigger stage?

LA: As I say it had been a dream of mine since I was young to become professional so for a club like Manchester United to be interested was unreal. It definitely felt like the right time and I was ready to move on and test myself at the next level.

How did it feel writing your name into the history books as being the first player to score for Manchester United when you hit the back of the net in that 1-0 win over Liverpool in the League Cup? LA: It was very surreal to be honest. It was such a momentous moment for us to get our first victory and it

"IT HAD BEEN A DREAM OF MINE SINCE I WAS YOUNG TO BECOME PROFESSIONAL SO FOR A CLUB LIKE MANCHESTER UNITED TO BE INTERESTED WAS UNREAL." was an added bonus to be on the score sheet!

You have played in some massive fixtures over the years including cup finals and internationals but what was it like walking out in front of over 5,000 people at Leigh Sports Village for the first home fixture against Reading?

LA: That was a special

moment for sure. It was another historic moment for our team and another one I was delighted to be part of.

The fans have been amazing all season and we are always so grateful for their support at home and away games.

How quickly did you adapt to your new surroundings in Manchester? Having been Edinburgh based your whole career did it take time to settle in and did it help having Kirsty Smith also making the switch from Hibs at the same time?

LA: Yeah it was the first time I had moved away from home so it was a challenge in itself and it took time to settle but it definitely made it easier having Kirsty there too and all the team are so supportive. It's nice we all live so nearby which brings us closer together.

As a full-time club, obviously the footballing side of things at Manchester United is a very different experience to what Hibernian can offer. Can you shed a little light on what playing for Manchester United offers you in terms of allowing you develop and improve as a player?

LA: Being able to train in a full time environment is great. I think that is the

47

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - LIZZIE ARNOT

biggest difference in terms of how my day is, not having a big gap in between training in the morning and night. It helps to get more time to recover in the evenings. Being at a full time club means the staff have more time to really ensure the attention to detail is spot on so in terms of development I feel I am in a great position to learn on and off the pitch everyday.

The structure of the WSL, FA Cup and Continental Cup means you have already experienced playing teams at a variety of different levels down South. How do you feel the WSL and WSL2 compare to the SWPL? Do you feel that playing at Hibernian offers a good step before moving up to take on the challenge down South?

LA: It has been good to experience different levels of competition in matches. I think the biggest difference compared to Scotland is the competitiveness of the league, where WSL1 teams are a lot more physical. But it's a step that is definitely possible for players to aspire to.

On the international front you have become a regular part of the Scotland national setup.

What did it feel like to

48

grab your first Scotland goals against Iceland in the Algarve Cup back in January?

LA: It was a great feeling. It was about time really! As an attacking player I need to contribute to goals and assists so it was important to finally get off the mark with two goals and I just hope I can push on!

Last month Scotland made the headlines with

"TO BE PART OF SUCH A BIG COMPETITION WITH YOUR NATIONAL TEAM IS SOMETHING I'VE ALWAYS WORKED TOWARDS." a 1-0 victory over Brazil.

Describe to us the goal which you played a huge part in creating?

LA: It was a great victory and such a strong team performance and one that we can take confidence from. I received the ball on the wing from Kim as we countered from their set piece. I was in a 1v1 situation and ran at the defender. She was backing off so I shifted it and crossed the ball into

the box. It all happened so fast that I tried to get it into a dangerous position and you can always rely on Kim to time her run to be in the right position in the box and finish with quality!

We would like to think based on recent performances that you are bound for the World Cup in the summer. Given that you missed out on the Euros last time out just how much would it mean for you to be named in Shelley Kerr's squad for France?

LA: It would be another dream come true. To be part of such a big competition with your national team is something I've always worked towards so fingers crossed the hard work has paid off.

Based upon your own experiences (and the adversity you have overcome in order to succeed) what message do you have for girls looking to develop their football careers?

LA: I think the biggest thing I would say is always work hard to give 100% with no regrets! Never give up on aspirations whatever challenges are in the way as there is always a way round them with the right attitude and application.

49

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STATISTICS

SQUAD STATISTICS LEAGUE PLAYER

SWPL CUP

SCOT CUP

TOTAL

APS

GLS

APS

GLS

APS

GLS

APS

GLS

AITCHISON, HOLLY

0 (1)

0

0

0

0

0

0 (1)

0

CAVANAGH, COLETTE

3 (4)

2

2 (1)

0

0

0

5 (5)

2

CORNET, CHELSEA CURRIE, JENI DAVIDSON, LAUREN EDDIE, LEAH FIFE, JENNA FISH, ASHLEY GALLACHER, AMY HUNTER, SIOBHAN LEISHMAN, SHANNON MCCAFFERTY, RIA MCGREGOR, SHANNON MENZIES, JADE MICHIE, CAILIN MORRISON, KIRSTY MURRAY, JOELLE NAPIER, JAMIE-LEE NOTLEY, ELLIS REILLY, KIRSTEN SMALL, RACHAEL TWEEDIE, LIA WILLIAMSON, CLARE

6 0 2 (1) 1 (1) 7 0 (1) 5 (1) 5 (2) 1 (4) 0 (1) 0 0 (1) 6 2 (4) 7 7 5 (2) 7 6 5 (1) 2 (3)

1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 0 5 2 3 0

3 1 1 (2) 0 2 0 (2) 2 (1) 3 0 (2) 0 0 0 3 2 (1) 3 3 1 (1) 3 2 (1) 2 (1) 1 (2)

0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9 1 3 (3) 1 (1) 9 1 (2) 7 (2) 8 (2) 1 (6) 0 (1) 0 0 (1) 9 4 (5) 10 10 6 (3) 10 8 (1) 7 (2) 3 (5)

1 0 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 5 0 6 2 4 0

SWPL 1 LEAGUE TABLE HOME

AWAY

TEAM

P

W

D

L

F

A

W

D

L

F

A

GD

PTS

1 2 3 4 5

GLASGOW CITY HIBERNIAN CELTIC RANGERS SPARTANS

6 7 7 6 7

3 3 1 1 1

0 0 1 0 1

0 1 1 1 2

20 9 5 3 4

2 2 2 5 7

3 2 3 2 2

0 1 0 1 0

10 0 1 1 1

8 12 14 8 6

1 0 4 8 7

27 19 13 -2 -4

18 16 13 10 10

6

MOTHERWELL

7

1

1

1

4

7

0

1

3

3

14

-14

5

7 8

FORFAR FARMINGTON STIRLING UNIVERSITY

7 7

1 0

0 1

3 3

3 2

19 12

0 0

1 0

2 3

2 1

7 9

-21 -18

4 1

51

ACADEMY - UNDER 23 SWFL 1 SOUTH LEAGUE TABLE POS TEAM

UNDER

23

WORDS BY DOUGIE PENMAN

I

t was disappointment last weekend for the U23s as they exited the SWFL Division 1 League Cup at the semi final stage at the hands of the holders Celtic Academy in a repeat of last year’s Final.

It was a sun-soaked Hibernian Training Centre and the hot conditions seemed to play a part in a surprisingly sluggish first half for both sides, with Hibs forced into two changes before the second half started.

Celtic would have the ball in the net first, with the referee deeming it offside, before they opened the scoring on 65 minutes when Tegan Bowie controlled a ball into the box and slotted it into the far bottom corner past Alicia Yates in the Hibs goal. And it was Bowie who would double the visitors’ advantage ten minutes later, firing a shot high into the net from a bouncing cross into the box.

Hibs would push forward trying to get back

52

into the game and were given a lifeline with three minutes to go when good build up play involving Jade Menzies playing the ball into Nicole Rutherford who flicked it to Cari Johnston, who picked out the run of Caley Gibb who did well to hold off a Celtic defender and side foot it in.

Unfortunately however an equaliser just didn’t come and it ended 2-1 to Celtic and they advanced to the Final where they will play Renfrew at Ainslie Park on Friday 3rd May. However there was still excellent news for the squad as three U23 players – Jade Menzies, Ria McCafferty and Holly Aitchison - made their first team debuts in Wednesday night’s 3-0 win against Stirling University.

Well done to all three of you!

With Scottish Cup action beginning this weekend for SWFL clubs there is no scheduled fixture for the U23 squad.

PL PTS

1

GLASGOW CITY DEV

7

21

2

CELTIC ACADEMY

6

15

3

RANGERS DEV

7

15

4

HIBERNIAN U23

6

13

5

BOROUGHMUIR THISTLE

7

13

6

RENFREW LADIES

6

10

7

QUEENS PARK

7

10

8

SPARTANS DEV

7

8

9

HAMILTON U23

6

4

10

BLACKBURN UNITED

7

4

11

KILMARNOCK U23

7

1

12

AYR UNITED

7

0

FIXTURES & RESULTS 10/2 SPARTANS DEV

H

1-0

24/2 BLACKBURN UNITED

A

1-1

6/3

A

1-2

H

14-1

17/3 GLASGOW CITY DEV

A

2-0

31/3 BOROUGHMUIR

H

4-0

14/4 RENFREW

A

1-4

17/4 EAST FIFE

A

1-2

21/4 CELTIC ACADEMY

H

1-2

GLASGOW CITY DEV

10/3 AYR UNITED

HAMILTON U23 5/5

CELTIC ACADEMY

19/5 KILMARNOCK U23

H A H

26/5 RANGERS DEV

A

9/6

H

QUEENS PARK

16/6 SPARTANS DEV

H

23/6 BLACKBURN UNITED

H

4/8

AYR UNITED

A

18/8 GLASGOW CITY DEV

H

25/8 BOROUGHMUIR

A

1/9

RENFREW

H

8/9

HAMILTON U23

22/9 CELTIC ACADEMY

A H

29/9 KILMARNOCK U23

A

6/10 RANGERS DEV

H

13/10 QUEENS PARK

A

TOP SCORERS CARI JOHNSTON

9

AMY HAY

5

CALEY GIBB

3

NICOLE RUTHERFORD

3

MORGAN TURNER

3

53

FIXTURES & RESULTS

DATE

OPPOSITION

RES

STARTING XI

FEBRUARY 2019 10th

SPARTANS

0-0

FIFE

WILLIAMSON

NAPIER

HUNTER

MICHIE

TWEEDIE

17th

CELTIC

2-1

FIFE

24th

HEARTS

1-0

FIFE

NAPIER

EDDIE

MICHIE

CAVANAGH

GALLACHER

NAPIER

HUNTER

MICHIE

CAVANAGH

GALLACHER

FIFE

NAPIER

HUNTER

TWEEDIE

DAVIDSON !

LEISHMAN DAVIDSON

MARCH 2019 10th

MOTHERWELL

0-4

17th

RANGERS

4-0

FIFE

NAPIER

HUNTER !

MICHIE

TWEEDIE !!!

24th

STIRLING UNIVERSITY

0-6

CURRIE

WILLIAMSON

NAPIER !

HUNTER !

MICHIE

TWEEDIE

29TH

GLASGOW CITY

0-1

FIFE

NAPIER

HUNTER

MICHIE

TWEEDIE

CAVANAGH

HUNTER

MICHIE

CAVANAGH

DAVIDSON !

APRIL 2019 14th

SPARTANS

0-3

FIFE

NAPIER !

21st

FORFAR FARMINGTON

0-8

FIFE

NAPIER !!!

MICHIE

CAVANAGH !

GALLACHER

NOTLEY

24th

STIRLING UNIVERSITY

3-0

FIFE

WILLIAMSON

NAPIER

HUNTER

MICHIE !

TWEEDIE

28th

SPARTANS

13:00

MAY 2019 5th

CELTIC

14:00

10th

SWPL CUP FINAL

19:35

16th

MOTHERWELL

19:45

19th

RANGERS

AUGUST 2019 4th

GLASGOW CITY

18th

STIRLING UNIVERSITY

21st

SSE SCOTTISH CUP R3

25th

FORFAR FARMINGTON

SEPTEMBER 2019 8th

SPARTANS

15th

SSE SCOTTISH CUP QF

22nd

CELTIC

29th

MOTHERWELL

OCTOBER 2019 13th

SSE SCOTTISH CUP SF

20th

RANGERS

27th

GLASGOW CITY

NOVEMBER 2019 3rd

STIRLING UNIVERSITY

17th

FORFAR FARMINGTON

54

FIXTURES & RESULTS

KEY: HOME FIXTURE, AWAY FIXTURE, ! GOAL, SUB PLAYED

SUBS

ROBSON, CAVANAGH, EDDIE, NOTLEY, MORRISON, LEISHMAN, DAVIDSON

GALLACHER

MURRAY

CORNET

SMALL

REILLY

NOTLEY

MURRAY

CORNET

MORRISON

REILLY !!

NOTLEY

MURRAY

CORNET

MORRISON

REILLY !

CURRIE, SMALL, WILLIAMSON, FISH, LEISHMAN, DAVIDSON, TWEEDIE

NOTLEY

MURRAY

CORNET

SMALL !!

REILLY !

CURRIE, CAVANAGH, FISH, MORRISON, GALLACHER, WILLIAMSON, MICHIE

NOTLEY

MURRAY

CORNET

SMALL

REILLY

GALLACHER

MURRAY !

CORNET

SMALL

REILLY

GALLACHER

MURRAY

CORNET

SMALL

REILLY

MURRAY

CORNET

SMALL

MORRISON

REILLY

MURRAY

CORNET !

SMALL

MORRISON !!

REILLY !

GALLACHER

NOTLEY

MURRAY

SMALL

REILLY !

CURRIE, HUNTER, LEISHMAN, SMALL, DAVIDSON, TWEEDIE, WILLIAMSON

CURRIE, CAVANAGH, LEISHMAN, GALLACHER, MORRISON, WILLIAMSON FIFE, FISH !, CAVANAGH, DAVIDSON, LEISHMAN, MORRISON, NOTLEY CURRIE, MORRISON, LEISHMAN, DAVIDSON, FISH, NOTLEY, WILLIAMSON

CURRIE, WILLIAMSON, NOTLEY, LEISHMAN, TWEEDIE !, MCGREGOR, GALLACHER CURRIE, WILLIAMSON, LEISHMAN, TWEEDIE, MCGREGOR, HUNTER CURRIE, MCGREGOR, AITCHISON, MENZIES, MCCAFFERTY, LEISHMAN, CAVANAGH !

55

56

THE LAST WORD

THE

LAST WORD GENERAL MANAGER FLORENCE HAINES COMMENTS ON THE ACADEMY SYSTEM AND THE HARD WORK BEING PUT IN BY OUR COACHES,

W

elcome back to Ainslie Park and thank you for reading our match programme. As always a special mention to Craig for producing such a high quality publication and thanks to those who have contributed.

It’s been a short break since we were last at Ainslie Park and in that time we’ve picked up six points and scoring eleven goals without reply. As mentioned earlier in this copy, the defensive unit and goalkeepers have been very hard to beat and show their quality week in and week out. I think credit has to go to everyone in the squad who has applied themselves to the challenges faced this season and are working really hard to perform week in and week out. It was also terrific to see the young academy players feature in the midweek game against Stirling University, all making their debut – Ria McCafferty, Jade Menzies and Holly Aitchison. I hope that in coming months we can build on the foundations made in the youth and academy teams and continue to give players chances to train with the first team, as well as showcase their results in here. There are certainly opportunities to players within the Hibernian academy to progress to first team, with Shannon Leishman and Kirsty Morrison being prime examples this year.

There are a great deal of coaches working hard at all age groups to support player

development at the Club. It’s fantastic to see youth players involved with Scottish International Teams, Scottish Schools Teams and SFA Regional Performance Programmes. I speak on behalf of everyone at the Club who is excited to see all our players develop and keep enjoying football.

Thanks to the eighty plus spectators who came along midweek at Peffermill, albeit a change of venue but a great pitch and facility, with good parking and access for spectators. Due to a lot of Stirling University students travelling with the Scottish Student Football Women’s National Team we moved the fixture back one week. I was also involved with the SSF National Team down in Cardiff at the Home Nations as Team Manager.

It has been my third year coordinating the squad and I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Thanks to the players and staff commitment and hard work we continue the unbeaten international run for the third year in a row as we were crowned 2019 Home Nation Champions.

We hope you enjoy the game today whether in person or following online (updates @ hibsladies on Twitter!)

Florence Haines 57

LINE UPS

HIBERNIAN SPARTANS Manager: Grant Scott

JENNA FIFE 1 ¨ CLARE WILLIAMSON 2 ¨ JAMIE-LEE NAPIER 3 ¨

SIOBHAN HUNTER 4 ¨ LEAH EDDIE 6 ¨

CAILIN MICHIE 8 ¨ LIA TWEEDIE 9 ¨

SHANNON MCGREGOR 10 ¨

COLETTE CAVANAGH 11 ¨

LAUREN DAVIDSON 12 ¨

JENI CURRIE 13 ¨

SHANNON LEISHMAN 14 ¨ AMY GALLACHER 15 ¨ ELLIS NOTLEY 16 ¨

JOELLE MURRAY 17 ¨ ASHLEY FISH 18 ¨ CHELSEA CORNET 19 ¨ RACHAEL SMALL 23 ¨ KIRSTY MORRISON 29 ¨

KIRSTEN REILLY 32 ¨

Manager: Debbi McCulloch

¨ 2 NICOLA MAWSON ¨ 3 SARAH CLELLAND ¨ 4 SIMONE MCMAHON ¨ 5 DION MCMAHON ¨ 6 BOBBIE BEVERIDGE ¨ 7 MICHAELA MCALONIE ¨ 8 KATIE FREW ¨ 9 RONAIGH DOUGLAS ¨ 10 BETH MCKAY ¨ 11 ALANA MARSHALL ¨ 12 KAELA MCDONALD-NGUAH ¨ 13 RACHEL HARRISON ¨ 14 TEGAN REYNOLDS ¨ 15 LOUISE MASON ¨ 16 KATIE REILLY ¨ 17 ELENA SANTOYO-BROWN ¨ 18 REBECCA GALBRAITH ¨ 19 ZOE JOHNSTONE ¨ 21 STEPHANIE BRIGGS ¨ 23 CHARLENE LESSELS ¨ 24 TARA MCGONIGLE ¨ 25 ROBYN MCCAFFERTY

NEXT AWAY FIXTURE CELTIC VS HIBERNIAN, SWPL 1, SUNDAY 5th MAY, 13:00 NEXT HOME FIXTURE HIBERNIAN VS MOTHERWELL, SWPL 1, WEDNESDAY 16th MAY, 19:00