New cup is just capital

HIBS WOMEN and Hearts Women have launched the Women’s Capital Cup all backed by Edinburgh fund managers, Baillie Gifford.

This new trophy for women to play for begins with the first fixture at Easter Road on 27 Nov and a return fixture on 26 Feb next year. The trophy will be lifted by the winner of each game. Supporters are invited along free of charge.

Both clubs will work with community groups to ensure that the broadest cross section of fans get involved, fostering greater inclusion and diversity in the national game. Supporters can also back the two charitable foundations Hibernian Community Foundation and Big Hearts. Hibernian FC Chief Executive Ben Kensell said: “We are delighted to launch the Capital Cup alongside Hearts as we look to enhance and grow women’s football in Scotland.

“It was a really proud moment for everyone at Hibernian FC last season to see 5,512 supporters at Easter Road for the Edinburgh Derby – a record crowd for a domestic women’s fixture in Scotland – and it was great to

see so many supporters at Tynecastle too. Thanks to the support of Bailie Gifford, we hope to not only see more supporters in attendance at these games, but to inspire the next generation of female footballers.”

Andrew McKinlay, Chief Executive at Heart of Midlothian, said: “Hearts is delighted to unveil the Capital Cup alongside Hibernian and with thanks to the support of Baillie Gifford. The fixtures between the two teams have been well attended by both sets of supporters.

“These games have already shone a light on the huge appetite for Women’s Football in the Capital and we are excited to see how far we can grow attendances and support the wider growth of the game in Scotland.”*