Excitement Builds for New SWPL Season
The return of the SWPL is here, promising another season filled with excitement.
As the new season approaches, attention turns to which teams will dominate the headlines and which players will shine. One thing is certain: the SWPL consistently delivers thrills, and this season is expected to be no different. Fans can anticipate potential final-day drama.
However, before diving into the action, it's important to note that this season introduces a new structure to the SWPL. The top flight is reducing from 12 to 10 teams. After 18 matches, the league will split into a top six and a bottom four, with each club facing off twice in their respective 'mini-leagues.'
With that in mind, let’s explore the teams and storylines for the upcoming season.
Can Hibernian Repeat Title Heroics?
Hibernian's remarkable resilience last season saw them clinch their first league title in 18 years. Despite a growing injury list, their determination shone through as they secured the championship on the final day, defeating Rangers 1-0 and finishing three points clear.
Striker Eilidh Adams played a pivotal role, netting 24 goals in what she describes as her best season at the club. Adams believes that Hibernian has the capability to replicate their success, stating that the squad is confident in their ability to compete at the highest level.
While Hibs have retained the core of their championship-winning squad, their strength will be tested in the Champions League, should they progress past the qualifying rounds.
Glasgow City Remains a Force
Writing off Glasgow City would be a mistake. The club, known as the "original trailblazers," continues to build on its historic successes.
Recent departures have made headlines, including assistant head coach Leanne Crichton, who has joined Rangers, and standout defender Samantha van Diemen, who has moved to Serie A side Roma.
Hayley Lauder has stepped in as the new head coach, while Emma Brownlie, a familiar face in Scottish football, has joined from Hearts, excited about the new challenge ahead.
Finishing second last season means City will also face the rigors of European competition, but their experience should serve them well as they aim for another strong showing.
Points to Prove for Rangers and Celtic
Both Rangers and Celtic experienced disappointment in the league last season. Rangers secured two domestic cups but fell short in the title race, while Celtic, the defending champions, finished fourth, trailing Hibs by 15 points. Both clubs are determined to improve this season.
Celtic's Chloe Craig states that the team aims to "right the wrongs" of the previous season, believing that a lack of external pressure will be beneficial.
Meanwhile, Rangers captain Nicola Docherty expresses confidence in new head coach Crichton's "winning mentality" as they seek to move past last season's league shortcomings.
With no European football to contend with, both clubs see this as a potential advantage in their quest for domestic success. Docherty emphasizes that "consistency wins league titles," and Rangers plan to maximize their home games at Ibrox, which could incentivize their performance.
Clubs on the Rise
Nearly eight years ago, Hearts committed to significant investment in their women's team, expanding their academy and transitioning to full-time football.
The results of this investment have been evident, as Hearts, while finishing 18 points behind Hibernian, have proven capable of competing with top teams, having taken points from Hibs, Celtic, Glasgow City, and Rangers last season.
Their goal will be to consistently challenge these teams, with defender Carly Girasoli expressing the desire to be competitive. They will have an early opportunity to make a statement when they face Celtic at the Oriam on the opening day, a match broadcast live on BBC Sport.
Top-Six Contenders and Expected Strugglers
With the new league structure, one spot in the top six is likely up for grabs, but competition will be fierce. Motherwell and Partick Thistle, who secured top-six finishes in previous seasons, are expected to be in contention again, along with a strengthened Aberdeen side that finished strongly last season.
The relegation battle may be less intense due to the new format, which allows one automatic relegation and a playoff for the ninth-placed team against the SWPL 2 champion.
Newly promoted Hamilton will need to avoid relegation threats, while Montrose, coming off a successful escape last season, might find themselves near the bottom of the table again.
BBC Coverage
BBC Scotland will continue to stream live SWPL matches, starting with Hearts versus Celtic at the Oriam on Sunday at 13:00 BST, available on the BBC Sport Scotland website and iPlayer. Additionally, BBC Alba will broadcast champions Hibernian's opener against Aberdeen at 16:10 BST.
Highlights of the weekend's matches will be featured in the Sportscene show on BBC Scotland and iPlayer on Monday at 19:30.
For more information, visit our dedicated page for women's football.
