Double celebration for Hibs cup winning captain

But the celebrations didn’t stop there for Hibs Ladies team captain Joelle Murray – as yesterday marked her 30th birthday.

After the team replicated their male counterparts’ achievement by winning the Scottish Cup against Glasgow City on Sunday, the players spent the rest of their evening partying, and enjoying a meal and drinks.

But when Joelle returned to her home in Dalkeith, she rewatched the match, and relived her team’s moment of glory as she lifted the cup.

The Hibees triumphed at Hamilton’s Superseal Stadium, when they beat Glasgow City 6-5 on penalties after the match finished 1-1 after extra time.

“What a birthday present it was,” Joelle said. “It’s such an amazing achievement for us, I thought we could achieve it, and we did.

“On the lead up to the game, the fact the men’s team had won the Scottish Cup was something I’d been thinking about quite a lot.

“I thought it would be amazing for both teams to have the cups at the same time. It still feels surreal.”

Joelle, who is an avid Hibs fan and attends matches regularly with her dad, has been playing with the ladies team since the age of 15.

Joelle said: “Hibs is the only women’s club I’ve ever played for. Sunday was so tense but it’s something we have been getting closer and closer too.

“I was so proud of the girls and it was amazing to lift the Scottish Cup.”

She added: “The girls are real models for any up coming football players.”

Joelle, who works part time at an insurance company, spent her birthday at work and football coaching, but said she will continue her celebrations this weekend.

Chris Roberts, Hibernian Ladies head coach, said: “Sunday was a brilliant experience, we played very well and the girls showed great character.

“I think this is the first club in history that’s held both cups at the same time, it’s a fantastic achievement.

“The girls have had a great year, between winning the Scottish Cup, playing in the Champions League and winning the League Cup in June.

“I am also so pleased for Joelle, she is a club legend.”

Hibs men rose to victory in May this year when they lifted the Scottish Cup for the first time 114 years. Last night Joelle got her hands on both cups which have been united at Easter Road before the club’s AGM.

A Hibs spokesman said: “Everyone at Hibernian FC would like to congratulate Hibernian Ladies on their success. Sunday’s win was a remarkable achievement for Chris Roberts and his side and recognition of all the hard work that goes in on a weekly basis.

“The Ladies team and the Hibernian Community Foundation are an integral part of the football club and we are delighted to celebrate their success with them.

“It has been a fantastic year for all Hibernian supporters, and to be in possession of two Scottish Cup trophies is very special.”

[email protected]