Renfrew Ladies FC coach Alexander Hunter admits his side will be heavy underdogs in tonight’s SWFL Division One Cup final clash with Celtic Academy.
The Frew ladies booked their spot in the final after a stunning second-half comeback over Aberdeen in the semi-final last month, with player-of-the-match Claire Rae bagging a hat-trick for the home side.
Currently topping Division One North with a 100 per cent record, the Dons were expected to provide a tougher test for the Frew.
READ MORE: Renfrew Ladies see off Aberdeen to book spot in Division One cup final
Aberdeen WFC were the third North Region side Renfrew had faced in this year’s competition, after beating Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the first round and Cove Rangers in round two.
Receiving a bye in round one, Frew welcomed Inverness to New Western Park back in March with a brace for Rae and Maria Ruponen and a Debz McGarrell strike seeing them safely through.
Rae was on target once again in the third round as Renfrew saw off Cove Rangers 4-1 with a Sammy Jo Smith double and an effort from Kirsty McGunnigle ensuring their semi-final spot.
Defending champions Celtic Academy will provide an even tougher task in the final tonight, however, with the Hoops side set to compete in their third consecutive final.
“Getting to the final is a massive achievement for our team,” Hunter said. “We had a lot changes in personnel in the last 18 months but we’re looking stronger than ever. Our strength has to be the togetherness with every player fighting for their team mates. It is what has got us here tonight and we’re all looking forward to the game.
“I am extremely proud of the players. We are a small community club in Renfrew trying to establish a pathway for girls in the local area.
“Celtic are a good side and are massive favourites going into the game. We have a lot of respect for them, but it is a final and on our day if we perform to our best, I believe our team can compete with and beat anyone.
“We deserve to be in the final as much as Celtic Academy.”
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