St Mirren Women staged a remarkable fightback on the opening day of their Barclays League One campaign, recovering from three goals down to claim a 3-3 draw against Edinburgh Caledonia. The standout performer was striker Praise Adebo, whose incredible 10-minute hat-trick in the closing stages turned what looked like certain defeat into a valuable point. Adebo, who joined permanently this summer after a loan spell from Stenhousemuir, displayed her sharp instincts at just the right moment, taking control of the match and inspiring her teammates when they needed it most.
Although St Mirren Women did not secure the win, the resilience and determination they showed in battling back from such a difficult position left a lasting impression. Their ability to salvage a result when the odds seemed stacked against them is the kind of spirit that excites fans and attracts attention from punters. Many will be encouraged to back the team in future fixtures through some of the best non GamStop bookmakers, where women’s football markets are becoming increasingly accessible. These platforms enhance the experience with competitive odds, fast payouts, and attractive perks such as welcome rewards, free bets, and odds boosts, making support for St Mirren Women’s Football Club’s potential heroics both engaging and rewarding.
Head coach Kate Cooper admitted the performance in the first half left much to be desired, with poor communication and indecision at the back contributing to Caledonia’s three-goal advantage. By the interval, the Buddies found themselves in a desperate position. However, Cooper used the break to remind her players of the standards expected this season and to reset their focus. The response was emphatic, with the second half seeing a transformation in intensity, determination, and desire to compete until the final whistle.
Adebo’s first goal in the 79th minute sparked belief that the game was not yet lost. As soon as the net rippled, the momentum swung heavily in St Mirren’s favour, and the striker quickly doubled her tally. By the time she completed her hat-trick, the Buddies were in complete control, dominating the closing exchanges and pushing for an unlikely winner. Although they could not quite turn the comeback into three points, the turnaround itself was a statement of the squad’s resilience.
For Cooper, the draw highlighted the growing character within her side. She praised the way the players refused to give up, emphasising how their spirit and determination allowed them to salvage something from a match that looked beyond them. The coach noted that while the team must learn to start games with sharper focus and avoid costly errors, the willingness to dig deep when under pressure showed the progress being made. The commitment to keep pressing after the first goal was scored demonstrated the players’ belief in one another and their determination to meet the expectations set for the season.
Adebo’s heroics not only brought her instant acclaim but also underlined why the club was keen to secure her on a permanent deal. Her instinctive finishing and ability to deliver in key moments will be vital as the season unfolds. Cooper also pointed out that the comeback reflected the squad’s fitness and mental strength, with players able to push themselves to the limit right until the end. She views that endurance as evidence of the investment made in the group, both in terms of preparation and belief.
The dramatic comeback now sets up St Mirren’s next challenge, a trip to Borough Briggs to face Elgin City. That clash will be the first in a series of testing fixtures, and Cooper knows it will be a tough outing, not just because of the quality of the opposition but also the demands of travelling north. Even so, she remains focused on securing the team’s first victory of the season. Elgin have proven themselves to be a strong and competitive side, but the Buddies will look to carry the momentum from their spirited second-half display into the match.
Ultimately, the season opener offered a blend of frustration and encouragement. Conceding three goals early on exposed weaknesses that need to be addressed, but the fightback reinforced the message that this squad has the determination to turn setbacks into opportunities. Adebo’s late heroics will long be remembered as one of the most dramatic comebacks in the club’s recent history and may well serve as a springboard for the season ahead.