Why Hamilton’s New Douglas Park is being chosen by Celtic FC Women instead of Airdrie.
Why Hamilton’s New Douglas Park is being chosen by Celtic FC Women instead of Airdrie
Celtic FC Women have declared that one of the three group stage
UEFA Women’s Champions League games will be held at Celtic Park, and that New Douglas Park in Hamilton will serve as their new permanent home.
By being the first Celtic FC Women’s team to advance to the Champions League group stages,
Elena Sadiku’s team made history last night. Emma Louise Lawton and Shannon McGregor’s goals in the Hoops’ 2-0 victory over Vorskla Poltava of Ukraine guaranteed them a seat at Europe’s top table for the first time ever.
In doing so, Celtic played their final game for the last time at Albert Bartlett Stadium.
The stadium, which is home to Airdrieonians, does not meet UEFA regulations for Champions League games.
It is decided as a group to relocate permanently to Hamilton in order to play Champions League games there and domestic home games in Airdrie.
Supporters who use public transportation will surely find it easier with the new stadium layout.
The train station Hamilton West is located right next to New Douglas Park.
This did not apply to the Albert Bartlett Stadium, which is just 20 minutes’ walk from Drumgelloch, the closest train station.
Most importantly, New Douglas Park satisfies UEFA requirements to hold UWCL and SWPL games.
“Playing in a home stadium that meets all the UEFA Women’s Group Stage requirements and allows us to make the matchday experience better still for our supporters is crucial as we continue our journey,”
expressed Elena Sadiku’s happiness over the stadium relocation.
“This will give our squad a true home for Celtic Women’s football,
offering an excellent environment where I am sure we will continue to flourish,” Sadiku continued.
Next Sunday, Celtic FC Women will play their debut SWPL match at their new home against Queens Park, who were just promoted. With 19 points, two points behind the Rangers, the Hoops are presently in third place.
Despite having played one more game than the two Glasgow teams, Glasgow City is in second place with 21 points.
Celtic Park will host one of the Champions League matches that Celtic has been drawn to play against Chelsea,
Real Madrid, and FC Twente in Group B.
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