SWPL games to look out for in new season

It's just over eight weeks until the new SWPL season gets under way and the fixtures have been revealed.

Reigning champions Celtic begin their title defence at home to Dundee United, who escaped relegation in the play-offs last season.

Runners-up Rangers have a trip to Aberdeen, Glasgow City travel to Montrose and newcomers Queen's Park host Hearts.

But there's plenty more to keep an eye on throughout the season so let's take a look:

Aberdeen v Rangers (11 August)

New Dons boss Colin Bell is thrown in at the deep end for his first competitive game in charge as the new season gets under way. It will be his first taste of Balmoral as his side - having lost three of their longest-serving players in Bayley Hutchison, Eilidh Shore and Jess Broadrick - welcome the cup double winners. Can Aberdeen replace the goals of last season's SWPL top scorer Hutchison following her move to Hearts?

Dundee United v Queen's Park (18 August)

Suzy Shepherd's side escaped relegation after finishing second bottom then beating Kilmarnock in the play-offs last season. Queen's Park eased to the second-tier title by a distance and are back in the top flight for the first time in almost a decade. These two are probably the most closely matched sides going into the new season so it'll be an interesting contest.

Glasgow City v Celtic (18 August)

It was a disappointing season for City last time out. After failing to retain the title, missing out on both cups and a Champions League spot, can Leanne Ross' side bounce back? They come up against reigning champions Celtic in only their second game of the season. It's likely to act as a good gauge for the level City need to reach after they're to get back among the silverware.

Rangers v Celtic - (2 October)

The first Old Firm derby of the new campaign sees the top two of last term look to land an early marker. Although scheduled for 8 September, it will take place a few weeks later on a Wednesday night due to both sides' involvement in the Women's Champions League. While early in the season, it could be one of those games that's looked back on as pivotal in the campaign - depending on who comes out on top.

Hibs v Hearts - (8 September)

Hearts travel to Meadowbank to face a Hibs side who have already nabbed their striker Kathleen McGovern. But it'll also be the first derby for new Hearts signing - and last season's top goalscorer - Bayley Hutchison. Goal fest incoming?

Hearts v Rangers (22 September)

The last time this fixture took place at Oriam, Hearts grabbed their first points against one of the big three sides with a 1-0 victory over Jo Potter's side. They went on to lose their next two meetings to Rangers, including defeat in the Scottish Cup final. But with the addition of Hutchison's goalscoring prowess, Eva Olid will be looking to trouble the Glasgow side again.

You can find all the fixtures for the new SWPL season here