Celtic Women beat Spartans, impressive start to season

Celtic FC Women continued their impressive start to the season by securing a place in the Sky Sports Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Spartans.

Casey Howe proved the difference at Kirkintilloch Community Sports Complex, scoring nine minutes before half-time on her first start of the campaign.

The Northern Ireland international’s strike was her second Celtic goal since arriving during the summer and provided the breakthrough after Grant Scott’s side had dominated possession and territory.

Celtic were unable to add to their advantage, with Scott admitting afterwards that his side had been wasteful around the penalty area despite controlling much of the contest.

Spartans ensured the tie remained competitive, but Celtic protected their slender advantage to record another clean sheet and progress to the last eight.

The result maintains an excellent opening to the campaign for Scott’s rebuilt squad, who have also won each of their opening four SWPL fixtures.

Academy prospect Freya McIndoe was also handed her first competitive Celtic appearance during the victory.

Elsewhere, the Men’s Team will be looking to bounce back from Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup defeat to Rangers. Martin O’Neill’s side face Ferencvaros in the Europa League before a chance to enact revenge on the Ibrox club.