SWPL attracts record crowds on opening weekend as thrilled league boss ushers in 'new era'

The Scottish Women's Premier League attracted record crowds during the first matches of the new season. Over 2000 fans turned out for Sunday's fixtures, the highest ever for an opening weekend in Scottish women's football since records began.

Best attended was Rangers ' 14-0 thumping of newcomers Glasgow Women at Broadwood. 720 punters turned up to see the reigning champions run amok as they begun the defence of their league title in style.

The attendance boost follows a rebrand of the SWPL last week and the increased exposure for the women's game generated by England's historic Euro 2022 win. SWPL managing director Fiona McIntyre revealed she was "thrilled" with the high turnout and reckons it's just the beginning of a "new era". She said: “We’re thrilled with this news and would like to thank all supporters that attended matches across the country on Sunday. This is a new era for women’s football in Scotland and clubs, players, and fans alike have responded incredibly positively to this.

“The investment on the pitch is clear to see and that certainly attracts fans to games. What’s also important is engaging with those fans and providing a quality experience. Clubs are continuing to invest in the matchday experience, and I believe the SWPL and SWPL 2 provides an exciting and affordable day out for football fans and families.”

Elsewhere in the top-flight, Glasgow City hammered Spartans 7-0, while Celtic made light work of Hibs, putting nine past the Edinburgh side without reply. McIntyre added: “These figures from week 1 of the season are very positive. Alongside the clubs, we aim to capitalise on a number of exciting opportunities throughout the season to continue to grow attendances and achieve this target.

“The