Celtic Women’s team extended their lead at the top of the Scottish Women’s Premier League after a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Montrose. Saoirse Noonan’s scintillating hat-trick helped the reigning champions navigate a spirited second-half comeback from the hosts and secure all three points. The Republic of Ireland striker, who has been in red-hot form since joining Celtic this summer, took her goal tally to nine in seven games.
Fast Start for Celtic
Celtic entered the match knowing that a win would take them one point clear at the top of the table, and they wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Noonan took just 14 minutes to break the deadlock, firing her team into the lead with a clinical finish. The early goal set the tone for Celtic, who looked in control from the outset, playing with confidence and fluidity.
Just four minutes after Noonan’s opener, Celtic doubled their advantage. Midfielder Maria McAneny found herself in the right place at the right time to slot home the second goal, giving the visitors a comfortable 2-0 lead. McAneny’s composed finish highlighted the team’s attacking prowess and hinted at what seemed to be a straightforward path to victory.
Noonan’s Brilliance Continues
Celtic continued to push for more goals, and their pressure paid off right at the stroke of half-time. Saoirse Noonan, who had been a constant threat to the Montrose defense, bagged her second goal in first-half stoppage time. The forward’s ability to find space in the box and finish clinically once again came to the fore, and it looked as though Celtic were cruising towards a comprehensive victory with a commanding 3-0 lead heading into the break.
At this point, the reigning champions appeared to be in full control, and many assumed that the game was all but over. However, Montrose had other plans and were far from ready to concede defeat.
Montrose’s Spirited Fightback
The second half saw a renewed sense of urgency from Montrose, who were determined to make a game of it despite the uphill battle they faced. The hosts began to carve out chances, and their persistence was rewarded just after the hour mark when Alma Codegoni pulled a goal back. The forward’s strike reignited belief among the home fans, who sensed that a dramatic comeback could be on the cards.
Montrose’s momentum continued to build, and with 10 minutes remaining, they struck again. Louise Brown found the back of the net to make it 3-2, setting up a nervy finish for the visitors. Suddenly, Celtic’s comfortable lead had evaporated, and the reigning champions were forced to dig deep to hold off the surging Montrose attack.
Noonan’s Hat-Trick Secures Victory
Just when it seemed like Montrose might complete their comeback, Noonan once again demonstrated her importance to Celtic. A minute after Brown’s goal brought Montrose within touching distance, Noonan completed her hat-trick with a superb turn and finish, restoring Celtic’s two-goal cushion and effectively sealing the victory.
Noonan’s third goal not only secured the three points for Celtic but also highlighted her incredible form since joining the club from Durham earlier this summer. Her ability to step up when it mattered most was key to keeping Celtic at the top of the table, and her contributions have made her an indispensable part of the team’s success.
Montrose’s Resilience Shows Promise
Despite the loss, Montrose can take plenty of positives from their performance, particularly their second-half resilience. Facing a 3-0 deficit at half-time, they showed tremendous character to claw their way back into the game and nearly snatched a point from the reigning champions. Alma Codegoni and Louise Brown’s goals exemplified their fighting spirit, and the team’s refusal to give up will serve them well as they look to build on this performance in future matches.
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