Women’s game out to boost attendances

It’s north-east derby day for Dundee United next week as the Scottish Women’s game bids to cash in on the men’s World Cup break.

Graeme Hart’s side host Aberdeen – comanaged by former United player Gavin Beith – on Sunday November 27 in the first SWPL clash of the New Firm rivals.

The two sides are currently separated by just three points with United sitting above Aberdeen in 10th.

United host Spartans tomorrow with a 4pm kick-off.

The Dons clash forms part of an exciting weekend of SWPL action, with St Johnstone playing Stirling University at Mcdiarmid Park.

The two sides are separated by just six points, with the Saints coming away 3-1 winners at Stirling when the sides met in August.

It’s an Old Firm derby in the SWPL as Rangers welcome Celtic to the Broadwood Stadium. The game – which kicks off at 5.15pm – will be broadcast live on BBC ALBA.

Reigning champions Rangers have a 100% domestic record and are yet to concede a goal. Celtic are three points behind, with only one loss to Glasgow City.

There is the potential for a record domestic crowd at Easter Road as

Hibernian welcome city rivals Hearts.

More than 6,500 have already secured their free tickets and are on course to beat the previous record, set by Hibs back in September 2021. The match is also live on BBC Alba.

SWPL managing director Fiona Mcintyre said: “This is a hugely exciting weekend for the SWPL.

“When planning for this season, we knew the men’s Fifa World Cup would present opportunities for us. This weekend, with little SPFL football, is a great opportunity for us to drive attendances and visibility for our game.”

Meanwhile East Fife player-coach Liz Anderson was a joint winner of the October SWPL Player of the Month award.

Last month saw her side go unbeaten as they looked to climb out of the relegation zone.

Anderson played the full 90 minutes in both games as they drew 1-1 against Queen’s Park and St Johnstone. She played a key role to help tighten their defence, which conceded 10 goals in three games in August, and also scored in their 1-1 away draw to Saints.

Montrose keeper Beth Mowatt was among the nominees for the October SWPL award.