Rangers Women Prepare for Crucial Old Firm Derby as SWPL Title Race Heats Up

New Era Under Crichton Faces First Major Test

Rangers Women enter a new chapter under recently appointed head coach Leanne Crichton, who joined the club in August 2025 on a three-year deal following Jo Potter’s departure to Crystal Palace. Potter’s tenure had been successful, securing multiple cup victories in the 2024-25 season.

The stage is now set for a crucial derby match against Celtic Women, with significant implications for the Scottish Women’s Premier League title race. The two sides are currently separated by just two points at the top of the table, making this encounter particularly significant.

Match Details and Unique Circumstances

The match will take place on Sunday, September 7, with an unusual kick-off time of 3:05 PM. The five-minute delay from the traditional 3 PM start is due to a nationwide UK Government emergency alert test scheduled for 3 PM that day.

The game will be hosted at New Douglas Park, which serves as home to both AFC Clyde and Celtic Women.

Recent Developments and Club Progress

In a significant development for women’s football at Rangers, the club recently announced that Ibrox Stadium would become the main home venue for the women’s team, subject only to fixture clashes with the men’s team.

The previous season saw Rangers finish in third place behind Glasgow City, who claimed the title, with Rangers positioning ahead of Celtic. The team enters this match with impressive form, having maintained an unbeaten record in their last seven Old Firm encounters.

European Aspirations

The stakes are particularly high this season as the team finishing first in the SWPL will secure a place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League for the 2025/26 season, with the runners-up also qualifying for the prestigious competition.