Hibernian midfielder Michaela McAlonieImage source, SNS
Image caption,

Michaela McAlonie impressed for league leaders Hibernian

Hibernian extended their lead at the top of the SWPL by a point to three with a comfortable victory against Motherwell at Meadowbank.

Well rested after a weekend off, Grant Scott’s league leaders were commanding as they capitalised on Rangers’ home defeat by Glasgow City, who moved up to second with four games to play.

Kathleen McGovern took advantage of a defensive disaster to break the deadlock, helping the ball in from mere inches out, before Kirsten Reilly powered a header in deep into first-half added time.

The hunt for a well deserved third was maintained throughout a dominant second half, but it was not forthcoming.

The impressive Reilly remained rooted when her well struck free-kick cannoned off the crossbar, while substitute Ciara Grant cracked an effort off a post after a silky move.

Numerous close-range chances were squandered too.

Paul Brownlie’s Motherwell, who were in action on Saturday, looked like they were feeling the effects of a long afternoon in their Scottish Cup semi-final loss to City at Hampden.

However, they made Hibs, who have an Edinburgh derby away to Hearts on Sunday (16:10) - live on BBC Alba and iPlayer - settle for two.

What they said

Hibs boss Grant Scott: "I'm delighted to win the game, it was a tough battle out there. It was physical, it got a bit feisty at times so I'm just delighted to get through it.

"For us it's incredible that we're there, the group has been amazing all season and it's going to be a tough job. There's some really good teams chasing us down but it's the best place to be at this point."

Motherwell manager Paul Brownlie: "We've got to focus on the positives. It was another strong performance, I thought defensively, in parts, we were sound.

"The goal took a bit of stuffing out of us and the second goal on half time was poor to lose it so late but I thought the response in the second half was brilliant."