Celtic FC Women captain Kelly Clark praised the squad’s fight after playing her part in another crucial victory over Hibernian on Wednesday night.

Returning to the Excelsior Stadium for the first time in a month, the Ghirls sealed all three points with a 1-0 win thanks to Caitlin Hayes’ first half header.

That win also sent Elena Sadiku’s side to the top of the SWPL as they continued their fantastic recent form, jumping to first place following Hearts’ victory over Rangers.

Speaking to Celtic TV after the game, Kelly Clark was pleased with the Ghirls’ attitude throughout the 90 minutes after the Celts were made to work for their victory in Airdrie.

She said: “It wasn’t our best performance. But we got the three points, so it was job done.

“When you are trying to compete with the three teams at the top of the league you’ve got to win even when you’re not playing your best football. Tonight we managed that.

“We were a bit sloppy on the ball at times, and we gave them a couple of chances as well. But fair play to the girls, we stuck by it.

'We fought well, especially in the second half. We got the goal and we held on for the three points.'

“It’s a really difficult stage of the season with the midweek games, and the number of fixtures that we play in a short space of time.

“Everybody’s legs are starting to feel it. I feel like we play a lot of games. So as much as you want to play good football, it’s not always possible.

“As long as you find a way, and grind it out then that is what is important.”

Kelly Clark: The girls did really well to get the job done and seal three points