“We were clinical in our set plays which is a strength of ours,” Celtic manager Fran Alonso

Set play specialists Celtic scored the only goal as a competitive first half drew to a close against Hibs at Penicuik last night when after a neatly worked short corner the ball was delivered to the back past for Caitlin Hayes to head home. The second half was more a more controlled period for Fran Alonso’s side bar one or two inevitable scares in the closing stages.

So the three points were secure and this was undoubtedly the most difficult of the remaining three matches, Celtic seem on course for the Champions League and maybe, just maybe a shot at winning the SWPL title on the final day of the season.

What a dilemma that could be for Malky Thomson’s side. TheRangers manager could be faced with having to beat Glasgow City while hoping that Celtic slip up away to Motherwell on the last day to make the Champions League, so he’s side will have to go for the victory. However they might do their bit but the result might not go their way in the other game and they could even end up handing the title to Celtic! How sweet would that be?

Before all that plays out Celtic are at home to Forfar Farmington this Sunday at K-Park in the last home game of the season and it’s fair to say that a large win is going to be required if the title race is going to go to the wire.

Back to last night’s 1-0 win at Hibs and Fran Alonso was clearly delighted with the manner in which his side negotiated a stiff challenge to collect the three points.

“I’m delighted with the result,” said the Celtic Women’s manager told the official Celtic website. “I don’t think it was the best game of football. It was a difficult surface to play football on and a 50/50 battle that could have gone either way. We were clinical in our set plays which is a strength of ours and then we managed to see the game out.

“It was all about the three points. It’s unbelievable that this is our 10th win in the last 11 games. We faced (the)Rangers and Hibs twice as well as Glasgow City. I’m so proud of the girls, I’m delighted for them.

“You could see some tiredness because the last game was very demanding physically and mentally but we got the three points in the end so I’m over the moon.

“I’m delighted for Caitlin Hayes,” Alonso added. “She’s been outstanding this season for us and for her to get the goal is something special.

“Her parents are Celtic fans and are very proud of her. I’m delighted for her and the team. It wasn’t an easy game but if you want to be at your best you have to win football games this way. We fought hard and got the three points in the end so I’m over the moon.”

Here’s Fran Alonso speaking to Celtic TV after the match…