Glasgow City 1-0 Celtic Women: Elena Sadiku’s difficult start in Glasgow continues

By Ethan Barlow

The Ghirls have had a tough start under new management (Getty Images)

Celtic’s new coach has had a rude awakening in Glasgow, as she’s lost both of her opening two matches. After Rangers knocked the Ghirls out of the Sky Sports Cup semi-final last Friday, it was vital Celtic bounced back, but Glasgow City have shown that they still have ambitions of title glory this season.

 

Fiona Brown’s early cross ended up in the back of Celtic’s net after just 16 seconds. Celtic dominated possession but didn’t really trouble the City goal and it was another disappointing display by Sadiku’s side.

 

Here are some of the key takeaways from Sunday afternoon’s action:

 

Sadiku is struggling to put her stamp on her new team

The new Celtic boss has had a tricky start to live in Glasgow (Image: Getty Images)

 

Celtic have lacked a real identity in their play over their last two matches and both performances have been poor, compared to the exceptionally high standards set by Fran Alonso. Against Rangers, Celtic struggled to create many chances by good play or unlocking the defence and both of their goals, came as the result of penalties. On this occasion, they struggled to create anything and only managed one shot on target.

 

Across the two matches, it doesn’t seem as if there is a clear goal on how Sadiku wants her side to play, and it doesn’t seem like the players understand what’s being asked of them either. There has been a lot of long-ball football and strange arrangements of play which will need to change if Celtic are to win their first title, which already seems like a big ask.

 

It’s Rangers’ league to lose now

 

Rangers edged past Aberdeen with a Rachel Rowe double securing an away win for the league leaders. Glasgow City’s win over Celtic now means Celtic are six points behind their Old Firm rivals and champions Glasgow City are eight points behind, the 2021/22 champions.

Rangers are unbeaten so far this season and have only dropped two points. If they’re to maintain this level of form, they will win their second league title in the space of three seasons.

 

No room for errors for the chasing pack

 

Despite Glasgow City beating Celtic, it hasn’t brought them any closer to Rangers. They sit eight points behind the Gers and with Rangers only dropping two points so far this season, City would need to be perfect to even consider getting their hands on their 17th title and second on the bounce.

 

Celtic will have to pick themselves up again, as they also can’t afford to drop any more points if they want to win their first title. They sit six points behind their rivals and Sadiku will need to get the team playing the way she wants otherwise quickly Rangers will run away with the league this season.

SportEthan Barlow