Hibs drew 2-2 with Glasgow City in last night’s televised game at Meadowbank.
Libby Smith scored a stunning opener inside five minutes to net her first goal for the club.
The visitors equalised just two minutes later through Kelly Brady.
Jess Fitzgerald restored Hibs advantage heading into the break with a close-range finish before Brady once again levelled for Leanne Ross’ side.
Hibernian Women Head Coach Joelle Murray believes a sharing of the points with Glasgow City on Friday night was the right outcome.
“A point apiece over the 90 was probably a fair reflection of the game, it ebbed and flowed,” Murray told HibsTV after the match.
“Both teams had sustained momentum at periods, so I think a point apiece is fair. We’re frustrated with the goals we conceded because we don’t think we made Glasgow City work for them. But outwith that, as I say, a point apiece is a fair reflection.
“I’m really pleased for Libby,” Murray added, discussing our new No.9’s spectacular first goal for Hibs.
“She came in just before the season started, so she’s still trying to find her feet in the group and with the style of play that we want to play. But she gives us that focal point, that natural nine, and I’m delighted for her to get her first goal. And what a goal it was. She took it extremely well. And for her to get the full 90 as well, it’s just a couple of ticks on her part.”
After 13 minutes played, with both teams already finding the back of the net, Hibs keeper Ariana Anastasiadis was forced off following a collision with teammate Sofie Keenan, thrusting youngster Rowena Armitage into the action early doors.
The 18-year-old stepped up to the task for the remainder of the match, making numerous reflex saves and holding tight a number of City efforts.
“I’m delighted for Rowena. It’s happened a couple of times now and she’s dealt with it extremely well.
“I sometimes think those situations coming in in a split second is probably – Rowena might say different! – but it can be easier because you’ve got no time to think about it.
“And the impact she had, the saves that she’s had to make were absolutely excellent for a goalkeeper who’s still so young.”
Following an upcoming break over the long weekend for Hibs Murray and the players will return next week to prepare for their Sky Sports Cup last 16 test against Kilmarnock in Ardrossan.
“It’s a big challenge. We’ll treat them with the utmost respect, of course we will. We do that with any opposition that we come up against. We’re looking forward to it. Already looking forward to getting back on the pitch.
“I think the girls are looking forward to a Saturday and Sunday off before getting back on the pitch. But Kilmarnock will be difficult, especially away from home so we need to ensure that we’re at the top of our game.”
Smith added: “I think it was a very competitive game. It was great to get my debut at Meadowbank and see all the fans. I thought they were brilliant for the whole game.
“Obviously, we’re slightly disappointed with the draw, I think that shows where we’re at, but there’s plenty to build on.
“It felt competitive from the start. I think all the way through. Obviously, I’m new to this league, so I’m just adjusting and settling in, but it was really competitive and we went toe-to-toe with a top side.
“We could have put away a couple of chances. I think we always come away from a game wanting more, that’s the standards that we set for ourselves, but as I say, there’s plenty to work on.”
Smith has now made three league appearances for Hibs, and next week she will get a first taste of cup action in Scotland as Hibs begin their Sky Sports Cup journey versus Kilmarnock.
“It’s really exciting again. The League Cup, it’s something different,” she told HibsTV.
“I think it will be a great opportunity to get more minutes in the legs and obviously work on different things and different strategies.”
