Rangers Women 5-2 Celtic Women: Hosts Dominate Old Firm Derby in SWPL

Glasgow Rangers Women delivered a statement performance in the Scottish Women's Premier League, defeating Celtic Women 5-2 in a thrilling Old Firm derby on Sunday, 27 September 2026. A ruthless first-half display and a clinical second-half finish gave Rangers bragging rights and three crucial points in the title race.

Match overview

Rangers started with intent, pressing Celtic high and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The home side's front line stretched the Celtic defence, creating space for midfield runners. Celtic, known for their quick transitions, tried to respond on the break, but Rangers' defensive midfielders screened the back four effectively for long spells.

The tone was set inside the opening quarter. Rangers moved the ball with speed, switched play from flank to flank, and repeatedly found overloads on the right side. Celtic's goalkeeper was busy early, making a sharp save before Rangers finally broke through.

Key moments

• 12' — Kirsty Howat opens the scoring for Rangers with a low finish after a quick interchange on the edge of the box.
• 23' — Rachel Rowe doubles the lead, arriving late to convert a cut-back from the right.
• 35' — Amy Gallacher pulls one back for Celtic, finishing neatly after a swift counter-attack.
• 58' — Howat restores Rangers' two-goal cushion with her second of the night, pouncing on a defensive mistake.
• 67' — Rio Hardy makes it 4-1, heading home from a corner.
• 72' — Natasha Flint gives Celtic a lifeline with a composed finish inside the area.
• 84' — Chelsea Cornet seals the win with a powerful strike from distance.

Tactical story

Rangers' 4-3-3 shape caused Celtic problems all evening. The wingers stayed wide, the full-backs overlapped, and the midfield trio controlled the central areas. Celtic struggled to track runners from deep, especially when Rangers switched the point of attack. The hosts also won the battle of the second balls, which allowed them to sustain pressure.

Celtic's best moments came when they broke quickly after regaining possession. Gallacher and Flint both found gaps between the lines, and their two goals showed the danger they carry. However, Celtic could not stop Rangers' rhythm for long enough. Every time the visitors scored, Rangers responded with another wave of pressure.

Standout players

Kirsty Howat was the standout performer, scoring twice and constantly stretching the Celtic back line. Rachel Rowe controlled the tempo from midfield and added a goal, while Rio Hardy and Chelsea Cornet made decisive contributions in the final third. For Celtic, Amy Gallacher was lively throughout and took her goal well, while Natasha Flint showed her finishing instincts with a well-taken second-half strike.

Season impact

This 5-2 win is more than just derby bragging rights. In the Scottish Women's Premier League, matches between Rangers and Celtic often shape the title race, and this result sends a clear message about Rangers' attacking power. The three points strengthen their position near the top of the standings and add another memorable chapter to the Old Firm rivalry. Celtic, meanwhile, will review a difficult defensive night but can take encouragement from their two goals and their spells of quick attacking play.