Natasha Flint scored twice as Celtic stayed top of the table
Celtic’s bid for their first SWPL title remains in their own hands going into the final round of games after a commanding win against Hearts.
A potentially tricky trip to the capital was settled comfortably in the first half with impressive goals from Tash Flint either side of Amy Gallacher’s stabbed effort.
The on-loan Liverpool striker left Lizzie Waldie in a spin before tucking away the opener and then capitalised on Rachel Johnstone’s indecision to creatively lob in Celtic’s third.
Waldie’s late headed consolation appeared to have reinstated the title race as it was, but Rangers conceded a late double at Meadowbank.
Elena Sadiku’s side are still level on points with Jo Potter's team, but their goal difference was extended to 16 going into Sunday's final day after Hibs' late goals in Edinburgh cut their win to a one-goal margin.
If Celtic are to go on to win the one domestic trophy that has eluded them this far, they’ll owe their fair share of thanks to Flint and Gallacher.
The former returned to the starting line-up and put on another fine performance to add to her collection since she rejoined the club on-loan in January.
Just like last season, chat has already begun about how Celtic might be able to sign Flint permanently, because few in the Scottish game can compete with her.
The finishes couldn’t have been at further ends of the scale, but her movement for both were superb.
Sandwiched between her brace was Gallacher’s own finish.
With Scotland head coach Pedro Martinez Losa watching on after omitting her from his squad named earlier on Wednesday, the Celtic fans posed the question, “Pedro are you listening? Amy G for Scotland”.
With an assist and goal to her name, the 25-year-old is up to 49 goal contributions for the season. But she could’ve hit 50 before hirpling off.
Johnstone’s palms were stung a few times by Gallacher, while Murphy Agnew and Lucy Ashworth-Clifford too could have racked up a few more goals.
Had they taken them, there perhaps wouldn’t have been the same rather flat reaction to Waldie’s consolation goal.
With the fans so tight to the pitch at Oriam, news of the score across the city reached the players instantly. But the smiles soon reappeared, as did the cheers.
A possible banana skin was negotiated with ease and Celtic know their fate is in their hands at Celtic Park on Sunday.
What they said
Hearts manager Eva Olid: "In the first half, Celtic were amazing but we were a little disorganised in defence and they were so much better. We committed simple mistakes and they scored.
"We modified a few things tactically at half time and I think it worked really well because in the second half we improved massively and that's the positive.
"That is the energy and attitude we need for the final, so that's the positive message heading into the cup final."
Celtic head coach Elena Sadiku: "I'm very pleased with the first half, it's exactly how I want us to play. Some of our football was incredible and I'm so proud of the girls for it.
"We got the job done, the aim for us is always winning games. We just need to focus on what we need to do and we will win games.
"I can't wait [for Sunday] I'm so excited. We all know what the game is about, playing at Paradise, hopefully we can get so much support and have a great day together."
