Livingston Women kicked off 2024 with a 3-1 victory away to Stirling University. A Shannon Mulligan double combined with a debut goal for Vhairi Munro to ensure that the Lionesses took all three points in the year’s first outing.

It wasn’t the best of starts for Livingston as a quickly taken free kick broke down in 5 minutes, leading to a Stirling counter attack which opened the scoring. Elise Salmond sprinted through on goal with all the time in the world and made no mistake to open the scoring.

Livingston struggled to get a foothold on the game in the first half but did manage to grab an equaliser. A Beth McKay corner was met by Shannon Mulligan whose header levelled things up in what was our only real chance in the opening 45.

The second half was much better from Livingston as the cobwebs appeared to be dusted off in a more controlling display. New signing Eilidh Begg created a couple of openings, with one cross meeting Beth McKay at the back post but the wingers close range effort went over the bar. Anna Dickov also went close after taking the ball beyond the Stirling goalkeeper, but was denied by a defender on the line.

Vhairi Munro gave Livingston the lead on the hour mark, with the on loan Partick Thistle striker opening her account for the club. A clever ball over the top by Shannon Mulligan was met by the forward who made no mistake and lifted the ball above the Stirling goalkeeper and give the Lionesses the advantage.

Although Livingston controlled the second half, Stirling had a few close range chances that were ultimately squandered but sent a warning to the visitors.

However, with 5 minutes to go the game was put to bed as Shannon Mulligan scored for the second time in the match. Substitute Lauren Evans teed up the midfielder who delightfully finessed the ball into the top corner and sending the away side into jubilation and on their way to a worthy three points in the end.

A strong 45 got a rusty first half out of the system as Livingston took maximum points in their first game of the year. The Lionesses are back in action next Sunday as they host 2nd placed Kilmarnock at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

Match Report: Angus Mcgregor

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