Hibernian Women’s head coach Grant Scott says there is a real togetherness in his team ahead of Saturday’s Sky Sports Cup Final versus Rangers.
Appearing in his first cup final since returning to the post in 2023, Scott has overseen a largely successful campaign so far – bolstered by an impressive record against the sides surrounding his team in the league table.
Hibs go into this match at the summit of the SWPL courtesy of a crucial 1-0 victory over Glasgow City last Sunday, and Scott challenged his players to seize the opportunity in what could prove to be a hugely defining match for either side.
“Every one of them at some point in the season will have their moment. We talk about it quite a lot. There’s a number who have done all their work and everything they can.
“The occasion is another measure for us. Can we take the pressure that comes with being in a two-horse race like that? Can we see it through and compose ourselves; do the right things in the match, stick to our game plan, and deliver in the critical moments?”
“Across the week we’ll keep it consistent. Nearer to kick-off time, we’ll remind the players what it means to be a cup winner for this Football Club.
“Some of the players I’ve worked with in the past when we’ve had successful times. There’s a real togetherness and you’ll always have that bond forever.”
Despite having managed to secure a resounding 3-0 victory and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Rangers earlier this season, Scott refuses to underestimate his opponent, and closest challengers in the league, this weekend.
“We’ve played them twice this season and played well against them on both occasions, but the truth is we can’t afford anything less – or any slip-ups.“
“I think we’ve proven already across the league season that we’re a good side.
“We’re in a cup final and we’re there on merit. All of these things are happening because of what the players are doing.
“Our preparations won’t change. We’ll be doing exactly the same things as we do for league matches. We know the opponent fairly well at this point in the season.”
Having seen supporters follow the team throughout the season, the head coach was positive that supporters who purchased tickets to Saturday’s match would be given the perfect opportunity to celebrate their own contributions.
“My message to the fans would be to come see us.
“We’ve got a number of supporters buses already heading through. Tickets are still available. What they’ll see is a Hibs team who will try and win the game, play to our strengths, be dynamic and look to attack when we can.
“We’ve got an incredible support as it is. But the more that come, the better chance we have.
“Handling that pressure, that scale of match, a good crowd, that’s the next part of our evolution, I think.
“These are the moments I want to bring back to the club, and we’re on the cusp of that now.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
