Howat's queen of the Palace

DUMFRIES forward Kirsty Howat has swapped Glasgow for London. It comes after the 28-year-old joined Crystal Palace from Rangers last week. Howat – who started her career at Lochar Thistle and has represented Scotland – admits leaving her beloved Gers side was the “hardest decision” she’s ever made. Howat – who will play in the second tier of the English Women’s League – said: “Rangers FC means so much to me and to have represented the club wearing the number nine shirt has been a dream come true. “Growing up supporting Rangers it was the proudest day of my life to sign my first professional football contract at the club. I will be forever grateful and proud to have represented such a historic and special club, I truly have lived the dream.” “I’m really delighted to sign for Palace. It’s been quite a whirlwind week, but I’m really excited to get going now.” Howat started her first match for the Eagles on Sunday but couldn’t mark her debut with a goal as they lost 1-0 to South London rivals Charlton.