Livingston Women’s FC look for dream debut as team prepare for first competitive fixture

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Livingston Women’s FC head coach Paul Jaconelli has told EN4 News that he “can’t wait to get started” ahead of the club’s competitive debut this weekend.

The club was only created in December 2019 after a partnership was formed with fellow West Lothian side Blackburn United.

Head coach Paul Jaconelli is the first ever manager in the new side’s dugout and he believes there is a gap for the club to take advantage of.

“There has been a lot of restructuring over the last year within the women’s game in Scotland, and we feel we have a really good opportunity to get ourselves to a level above,” he said ahead of the big kick-off.

“We have signed some very good players from the highest level in the game, and we can’t wait to get started competitively.”

The Lionesses will compete in the Scottish Women’s Football South Division, which will see them take on Edinburgh City Ladies at the Tony Macaroni Arena on Sunday.

Their alliance with Blackburn United means that the most senior players from The Burnie will play under the Livingston WFC banner along with some new signings.

Speaking on the link-up, Jaconelli said: ‘’This alliance gave not only Livingston, but also Blackburn a stronger brand and a very good pathway, which is a great attraction for potential new players as well as our loyal players who have been with us through thick and thin.”

But they are not underestimating their opponents come Sunday.

“Edinburgh City are a brand new team, so are very much an unknown quantity right now. They have kept themselves well under the radar, so we aren’t sure what to expect from the weekend.”

Image Credit: VFSportsPix

Women’s football has seen a significant growth in Scotland over the past few years, with the national team qualifying for the World Cup in France last year.

Captain Vicky Wood, who will be the first player to lead out the new side, says the effect is being felt at all levels.

She told EN4 News: “For me personally, it’s had a massive impact. Girls’ football was almost non-existent when I was growing up.

“Now you can see how far it’s come with the number of girls and women who play.”