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London City Lionesses suffer heavy 4-1 defeat to the Hammers Back Match Report West Ham go to the top of Group C after triumph at Hayes Lane London City Lionesses suffer heavy 4-1 defeat to the Hammers Ryan Asman 27 November 2024 By Paul Donegan West Ham United beat their Women’s Championship opponents London City Lionesses 4-1 in the Women’s League Cup on Sunday afternoon. Viviane Asseyi scored a brace whilst Manuela Pavi and Riko Ueki also found the net for the Women’s Super League side. Sofia Jakobsson scored the Prides consolation goal late in the first half. There were no clear chances in the opening 10 minutes at Hayes Lane as both sides settled into the match and got used to conditions with the strong wind caused by Storm Bert. In the 14th minute, Asseyi opened the scoring for the Hammers when she was played in by Marika Bergman Lundin and finished low past Grace Moloney from the edge of the area. The next effort on target didn’t come until the 29th minute when Bergman Lundin’s strike for the visitors was held by London City’s goalkeeper. The closest the home side went to finding the net in the opening 30 minutes or so was a deep cross from Emma Mukandi that just went wide of the far post. A couple of minutes before half time, Mukandi’s lofted ball forward found Isobel Goodwin but her low shot rolled wide of the post for London City. In the final minute of the first half, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah’s 30-yard strike dipped just over the crossbar as the Pride came close to equalising. London City Lionesses did equalise in the first minute of stoppage time when a ball forward from Boye-Hlorkah found Jakobsson and her curling shot from 18-yards found the corner of the net. After London City’s half time substitute Miljana Ivanovic’s run forward, Boye-Hlorkah’s shot was rather tame and dealt with by Megan Walsh in West Ham’s goal early in the second half. Bergman Lundin shot from 25-yards for the Hammers in the 55th minute was easily saved by Moloney. West Ham retook the lead in the 71st minute when a loose ball from London City was picked up by Colombian international Pavi and she finished to score her first goal for the club. A minute later, the visitors made it 3-1 when Ueki played in Asseyi who went around the keeper and slotted low into an empty net to score her second of the match. Ruesha Littlejohn saw a shot deflected behind for the hosts in the 75th minute as they looked to get back into the match. Boye-Hlorkah’s strike from 25-yards was stopped by the visitors goalie in the 88th minute. In the fourth minute of additional time, Ueki scored West Ham’s fourth with a low shot from 12-yards. All four goals conceded by London City Lionesses could be seen as avoidable with the ball being lost fairly easily in midfield or from sloppy passes that the visitors benefited from. The Hammers top Group C with 6 points from their 2 games whilst the Pride are in 3rd place on 3 points, level with Southampton. Line ups London City Lionesses (4-2-3-1): Moloney, Neville, Meyong (Imuran 79’), Campbell (Littlejohn 57’), Mukandi, Scofield (Fitzgerald 79’), Brougham, Jakobsson (Wilde 69’), Asllani (c) (Ivanovic 46’), Boye-Hlorkah, Goodwin Unused substitutes: Orman, Goldie, Brown Goal – Jakobsson 45’+1 West Ham United (4-2-3-1 ): M. Walsh, Mengwen (Denton 63’), Cooke, Zadorsky (c) (Saez 46’), Smith, Brynjarsdottir, Bergman Lundin, Harries (Siren 63’), Piubel (Ueki 68’), Pavi, Asseyi Unused substitutes: Szemik, Tysiak, Houssein, S. Walsh Goals – Asseyi 14’, 72’, Pavi 71’, Ueki 90’+4 Referee – Grace Lowe

Aston Villa manager speaks to the media ahead of her sides WSL clash with Everton at the weekend. Back “We have shown an awful lot of character all season” says Villa boss Carla Ward Aston Villa manager speaks to the media ahead of her sides WSL clash with Everton at the weekend. Getty 3 March 2023 By Rosa Maitland Carla Ward confirmed that she has a fully fit and available squad for the match up on Sunday, “everyone is good, fit and available, obviously Rach [Rachel Daly] came off in the West Ham game with a knock, but she has come through training and she is fit and ready.” Sunday’s game will be a match-up between two sides who seem to be battling it out for 5th spot, with just one point separating one another. Ward admitted that Everton may be one of the hardest teams they have faced this season: “they are a good footballing side, I think what you will see this weekend is a good game of football, proper football is what I would call it. The two times we have played them what you have seen is an exceptional game of football, both teams want to play and look after the ball and attack in the right way, so credit to Everton they have had a really good season…I admire the way they play but they play in a similar way, so it will be a good matchup I think, it will be a tight one but hopefully a good one for the neutral.” When asked how much confidence she has taken following two positive away performances, ahead of another tough trip on the road Ward responded: “I think we have shown an awful lot of character all season. Last week we needed it more than ever. "We were tired mentally and physically after the international break, but we have shown that we have a lot of character in this dressing room. So yes we are a team that has played free flowing football and yes it creates opportunities, and we want to continue in that way, but we also know we are coming up against a team that has a lot of quality, so we are going to absolutely have to be at our best to try and take the three points.” When the two teams last met, in October last year, Everton came away with all three points. In this time Ward has strengthened her squad during the January transfer window. Ward was asked if this would give her side an edge over Everton as they will prep to play against a side who are playing in a slightly different set up. “They have changed the way they play as well in all honesty in the last five games, they have slightly adapted the way that they play, you can see that so I think it will definitely be a different game but still certainly it’s going to be two good footballing teams out there, so we are looking forward to it.” Following the FA Cup quarter-final draw midweek, Aston Villa will host Manchester City. When asked if they will be underdogs going into the game Ward responded: “Absolutely we are underdogs to City, not many teams take points off City. Not many teams take points off them in two games so that will give us a little bit of hope and a little bit of heart, but let’s be honest there is no beating around the bush when we saw that draw you want to avoid the top three.” Ward went on to praise Manchester City and manager Gareth Taylor: “City have been in unbelievable form and still I don’t think they are getting the plaudits they deserve; I think Gareth has done an unbelievable job and I think your starting to see a really tough team to play against so I think it will be a tough one but one we will certainly enjoy.” Aston Villa head to Walton Hall Park to face Everton on Sunday at 3pm (GMT). News

All you need to know ahead of this weekend's Conti Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea Conti Cup: Bumper Guide Friday, 29 March 2024 By Paul Donegan All you need to know ahead of this weekend's Conti Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea Getty ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

All you need to know ahead of the record breaking Vitality Women's FA Cup 2023 A Guide to the FA Cup Final 2023 Saturday, 13 May 2023 By Paul Donegan All you need to know ahead of the record breaking Vitality Women's FA Cup 2023 The 2023 Women’s FA Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester United takes place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 14th May (kick off 2:30pm BST). Chelsea have won the last two FA Cups and will be looking to win it for the fifth time in total. This will be Manchester United’s first appearance in the final. These sides are currently the top two in the Women’s Super League (WSL). The match has sold-out and will set a new attendance record for the final and cup. How they got to the final Both sides entered the cup in the fourth round. In that round, Chelsea beat Liverpool 3-2 at Kingsmeadow with Sam Kerr scoring a hat-trick. The Blues took on London rivals Arsenal in the fourth round. They won that match 2-0 with Sophie Ingles and Kerr scoring the goals. In the quarter-finals, Chelsea overcame Reading, beating them 3-1. The goals were scored by Jess Carter, Maren Mjelde and Guro Reiten. Kerr scored the only goal in the semi-final as they beat Aston Villa 1-0 to reach their third consecutive final. Manchester United started their FA Cup campaign with a 2-1 win away at Sunderland with Nikita Parris scoring both goals. In the fourth round, they beat Durham 5-0. Vilde Boe Risa, Leah Galton, Hannah Blundell, Alessia Russo and Parris scored the goals. They travelled to The Dripping Pan in the quarter-finals where they beat Lewes 3-1. The goals were scored by Russo, Boe Risa and Parris. Galton, Russo and Rachel Williams scored as they reached Wembley for the first time by beating Brighton 3-2 in the semi-finals. Past Meetings In the WSL meetings this season, Chelsea won the meeting at Leigh Sports Village in November 3-1. Kerr, Lauren James, and Erin Cuthbert scored for the Blues whilst Russo scored United’s consolation goal. In the return fixture at Kingsmeadow in March, Chelsea won 1-0. Kerr scored the only goal of the game during the first half. Manchester United have never beaten Chelsea in any competition. Photo: Edward Payne Chelsea Chelsea are currently second in the WSL. Emma Hayes normally lines them up in a 4-2-3-1 formation but has also recently also used a 3-4-1-2 formation, even swapping between them during matches. Starting in goal will either be Ann-Katrin Berger or Zecira Musovic. In defence, Eve Perisset, captain Magdalena Eriksson, Kadeisha Buchanan, Jess Carter, Maren Mjelde and Niamh Charles have been regular starters throughout the season. Alsu Abdullina is another defensive option whilst Millie Bright will miss the final with a knee injury. Erin Cuthbert, Sophie Ingle, Melanie Leupolz, Jessie Fleming and Jelena Cankovic could be used in the midfield. In the attacking midfield positions, Lauren James, Guro Reiten, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Katerina Svitkova have been used. In the number 10 role, Fran Kirby is out injured for the rest of the season so Pernille Harder, Fleming or Cankovic could start there. Sam Kerr will probably start up front with Harder, James and Reiten as a back-up in this position. Photo: Ryan Asman Manchester United Marc Skinner’s side currently sit top of the WSL. He normally sets United up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, and has kept a fairly settled starting line-up throughout the season. Mary Earps will probably start in goal with Sophie Baggaley as back-up. In defence, Ona Batlle normally starts as right-back, Maya Le Tissier and Millie Turner in the centre, and Hannah Blundell on the left side. Aoife Mannion has started some recent games as a centre-back. Other defensive options include Jayde Riviere, Aissatou Tounkara and Estelle Cascarino. Maria Thorisdottir is out injured for the rest of the season. Captain Katie Zelem and Hayley Ladd have been regular starters in midfield, with Nikita Parris, Ella Toone and Leah Galton playing in more attacking roles. Other players who can play in midfield include Vilde Boe Risa, Lisa Naalsund and Lucia Garcia. Alessia Russo is the normal starter in forward position with Rachel Williams and Martha Thomas as other options in attack. Stadium and transport information The final, as it has done since 2015, will take place at Wembley Stadium. Following national rail strikes on Friday and Saturday, there may still be some disruption on Sunday. NO TRAINS WILL BE STOPPING AT WEMBLEY STADIUM STATION. The closest stations to the stadium that will be open are Wembley Park (Jubilee and Metropolitan Underground lines) and Wembley Central (Overground from Euston station in London and Bakerloo Underground line). A number of TfL buses stop close to the stadium including the numbers 83, 92, 182, 223, 440, 483. National Express coaches have direct event day services to Wembley. Car Parking has to be pre-booked and is limited. Blue badge parking is available but again has to be pre-booked. General admission turnstiles open at 12:30pm (BST) with hospitality turnstiles opening an hour earlier at 11:30am (BST). Wembley has a restricted bag policy with each person allowed to take in one small bag no bigger than A4 size. All bags will be searched before entering the stadium as well as security checks and searches on supporters. Wembley Stadium is a cashless venue with only card/contactless payments accepted throughout. Wembley Stadium has a no-street-drinking zone on Olympic Way and surrounding streets. Fans found drinking alcohol in this area will be asked to hand it over. There are bars and restaurants in the local area or alcohol will be available in the east fan zone. Fan Zones There will be two fan zones to the east and west of the stadium. They will be unsegregated but you must have a match ticket to enter and they have limited capacities. The west fan zone will have things such as table football and football darts as well as food and soft drinks. The east fan zone will have a resident DJ as well as food, soft and alcoholic drinks (alcoholic ones will stop being served at 1:30pm (BST). Both fan zones will be open from 10:30am to 2pm (BST). Match Officials The referee for the final is Emily Heaslip and she will be assisted by Georgia Ball and Chloe-Ann Small. The fourth official will be Abigail Byrne and the reserve assistant referee is Sophie Dennington. For the first time in a Women’s FA Cup final, VAR will be used. Michael Salisbury and Sian Massey-Ellis will be the officials in charge of that. TV/Radio coverage In the UK, the final will be shown live on BBC One/Sport Website/iPlayer with coverage starting at 1:50pm (BST). There is live radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra (coverage starting at 2:15pm (BST)) and coverage on talkSport from 2pm (BST). Outside of the UK, in countries without broadcast deals for the final, it will be shown on the FA Player (check local listings).

Ebony Salmon Position Forward D.O.B 27/01/2001 Club Racing Louisville Jon Super

Our writer Finley Chung reflects on his time watching Spurs, from regional football to the FA Cup Final From Cheshunt to Wembley - My journey supporting and covering Spurs Women Friday, 10 May 2024 By Finley Chung Our writer Finley Chung reflects on his time watching Spurs, from regional football to the FA Cup Final Ryan Asman The 29th April 2018, a day that I had no idea would be the start of a fantastic journey watching Tottenham Hotspur Women, or Spurs Ladies back then as they were known. With the club then playing their home matches at Cheshunt Football Club, which is a convenient ten minute walk from my house, I thought to myself one day, why not go over! It was a thrilling game, Spurs went 3 up inside the first seven minutes thanks to goals from Wendy Martin and a Bianca Baptise double. Despite being pegged back to three each by Durham, Sarah Wiltshire, Ronnell Humes and Lucia Leon eventually sewed up a 6-3 win for Karen Hills’ side. That was my only experience of the girls in person, until the then record North London Derby in 2019 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, I left the ground that day, despite a 2-0 loss hell bent on going to more games, then Coronavirus happened and that was the end of that. Before I knew it, Euro 2021 was around the corner and excitement gripped the nation. I had always kept an eye out for the Lionesses scores, but never actively searched out places, or people to watch games with… until Georgia Stanway’s right foot changed all of that against Spain. For that goal, I screamed so loudly that I woke up my neighbours kids, which tells you enough about the emotion I felt. Of course, England went on to win the Euro’s on that magical day under the Wembley arch, but that catapulted my interest into wanting to watch and cover the women’s game in greater detail. 2021/2022 was Spurs’ best in the WSL, finishing fifth and taking league points off Arsenal and Manchester United for the first time in the clubs short professional history at that stage, the future looked really bright for Rehanne Skinner’s side, but as I grew further into covering the WSL in 2022/2023, that bright future certainly was not what it seemed earlier on. The run that ultimately decided Skinners fate was a nine game winless run between game weeks six and fifteen, when Vicky Jepson took interim charge of the side. Thanks in huge part to Bethany England, Spurs stayed up at the expense of Reading and beat the Royals 4-1, my most memorable press box experience at that time, thanks in no small part to an England double, secured the club’s WSL status. Photo: Ryan Asman I, much like many other Spurs fans at the end of last season, wondered where we might be without Bethany England and I do believe, the answer is in the Championship and not in an FA Cup final, however, over the summer, a period of change happened in N17, a period which has catapulted the club to heights it has never seen. Appointing the loveable Swede, Robert Vilahamn was the clubs seeming first step into putting right the wrongs of the previous campaign, and Spurs haven’t looked back since. In the summer, Vilahamn strengthened hugely, with Martha Thomas, Olga Ahitnen, Luana Buhler, Barbora Votikova and most notably, Grace Clinton joined the Lilywhite revolution. Following an opening day defeat to Chelsea in the WSL, the club went on a six game unbeaten run in the league which truly set the tone for the rest of the term. I covered Vilahamn’s first competitive game, the loss at Stamford Bridge and it gave me the first opportunity to see ‘Bobby Ball’ as its now heralded by the clubs fans in full force. I had zero idea what to expect, but from the first interviews Vilahamn did with Spurs’ in house media team, it was clear he matched the key ethos, play exciting football that wants the fans combing back for more, embodying in full force the club’s Latin Moto, “Audere est Facere’, meaning ‘To Dare is To Do’ in English. Spurs lost 2-1 on that brisk September evening, but had it not been Martha Thomas’ first game for the club, she could’ve so easily had one or two more to the consolation goal she got in SW6. Thus season has been full of highs and historic moments, with the Cup Semi-Final, and the historic North London Derby Win over Arsenal two games that give any Spurs fan goosebumps. Martha Thomas was the name at the centre of both of those moments. She sent the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium into a frenzy when finishing off a lightning quick counter attack to seal a 1-0, first ever win over Arsenal in the last game before Christmas, with the Scott writing more headlines in the Cup Semi-Final a few weeks back when Spurs overhauled a one goal deficit, to clinch their place in their first ever FA Cup Final courtesy of Thomas’ 118th minute extra time winner against Leicester City. Being at both these games felt like a genuine full circle moment for me watching this side, who have grown from Regional Football, to compete and beat some of the very best in Women’s Football in this country. On the morning of Wednesday April 24th, I secured my tickets for the FA Cup final, with Spurs selling out the allocation of over 11,800 within three days. The journey for Spurs to get here has been sort of similar to my own personal journey, which I documented for On Her Side just under a year ago now. The feeling of pure elation when Martha Thomas’ header looped over Leicester keeper, Lize Kop and nestled into that net infront of the South Stand of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was simply put, magical. As the days tick closer and the weather gets warmer, whatever happens on Sunday, is going to be a special day for Tottenham Hotspur Women.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Sandy MacIver Sandy MacIver (Mac-EEver) has been in and around the England camp for a number of years having made her senior debut back in 2021. The goalkeeper played as Everton’s number one between 2020-22 and has since moved to Manchester City in a bid to share duties with Ellie Roebuck. MacIver could be described as a brave or bold goalkeeper. When it comes to one-on-one situations, she is unafraid to come off her line, “get big” and is more likely to employ defensive action outside of the area than most. Whilst it would be fair to say MacIver is perhaps not as light-footed as Ellie Roebuck or as vocal as Mary Earps, she is a solid organiser with a favourable save ratio and will do well to get a few more international minutes under her belt. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Aston Villa boss Carla Ward questions the impact the World Cup and Nations League will have on international players as the domestic league kicks off Back "We need to start looking after players physically, mentally and emotionally" says Ward after successive international breaks Aston Villa boss Carla Ward questions the impact the World Cup and Nations League will have on international players as the domestic league kicks off Getty Images 30 September 2023 Paul Donegan Carla Ward spoke to the media on Friday morning ahead of Aston Villa’s opening Women’s Super League game of the season against Manchester United on Sunday. Ward was first asked about the concerns about the kit (which has been getting very wet during matches). She responded by saying they have similar concerns as the men have but it is over to the club and Castore (kit manufacture) to deal with as her focus is on the weekend. She added the club have been superb with communication about how they can help the players, what will make them feel better and there is a genuine care from the club. Looking ahead to the match on Sunday, Ward feels her side are ready after a strange pre-season. “ The girls have been sensational since they have been back in” Ward added. As a group they are looking forward to playing in front of a record attendance (12,000) at Villa Park. She thinks it will be a tight, technical game of football and the two sides that will go for it. In terms of team news for the Manchester United match, Kenza Dali is unavailable after coming back from the World Cup with a knock and not trained since then (still a couple of weeks away), whilst Maz Pacheco is a major doubt after picking up a bug. Apart from those two, everyone is fit and available. Asked about what would be seen as success this season after finishing fifth in the WSL and reaching the FA Cup semi-finals last season, Ward said success was retaining key players and players that were on loan signing permanently as well as adding a few extra into the squad. Ward said apart from that, success would be “ continuing what we have been building, and trying to better what we did last season (not necessarily top four) and try to close the gap”. Speaking about new signing Ebony Salmon, Ward said along with other signings it gives them different attacking options which is something they didn’t have last season. “Ebony’s pace and power is phenomenal and to have that added is massive to us” the Villa manager continued. “I have never seen pace like it”, and “there is no-one in the WSL like her” Ward added. Ward thinks Sunday’s opponents Manchester United will be up their challenging again after an unbelievable 22/23 season when they finished runners-up in the WSL and FA Cup. She thinks they have had one of the best transfer windows in the WSL with a lot of money spent and quality coming in. With the World Cup not finishing until five weeks ago and another international break last week, Ward doesn’t think that those who played in each have had a long enough break. She added we need to start looking after players physically, mentally and emotionally. The Villa manager also said there are plans to give those who have been playing lots of international football some rest during the season (Conti Cup weeks). When speaking about Maddy Cusack who tragically passed away last week, Ward, who had managed Cusack at Sheffield United, got emotional saying she had an “ unbelievable relationship” with her and she was an “exceptional human being”. Another new Villa signing over the summer is Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, and Ward thinks “she has the potential to be the best in the world” . Ward continued by saying they have been tracking her since the Euro’s last year but she is young still and they will have to take care and look after her as she develops in the WSL. Ward said she would love to sale out home games at the Bescot Stadium this season as the place bounces when there are more than 3,000 in attendance. “The fans have been unbelievable” and Ward hopes they can put on a show at Villa Park on Sunday. Kirsty Hanson signed permanently from Manchester United over the summer after being on loan last season, and Ward commented that it was all about if United could replace her which they did. Ward thinks the transfer works for all parties and Hanson fits what Villa want to do. Ward thinks anothe r new signing Adriana Leon “needs to be told what she is actually good at and reminding what she is good at” . Ward said they will look after her and hopefully get the best out of her. Asked about fine margins in games, and Ward thinks Villa has more squad depth this season which should help, and they are more used to the elite level of game management. Ward noted it is important Villa keep developing youngsters. “Laura Brown is a sensational young player, someone I have high hopes for” Ward said and “we see her playing a huge part this season”. Rachel Corsie is the Villans captain this season and Ward was asked why. “She is one of the greatest leaders you will meet, she is a natural leader who understands the game, experienced, I can rely on, trust and will lead the team” the Villa manager concluded. Aston Villa v Manchester United is live on BBC Two (12:30 kick off BST) on Sunday in the UK (check local listings/FA Player around on the world ). News

Spurs boss Robert Vilahamn is encouraged by Spurs' experience in the FA Cup final Back "It's not the end, it's actually just the beginning" says Vilahamn Spurs boss Robert Vilahamn is encouraged by Spurs' experience in the FA Cup final Eddie Keogh 12 May 2024 By Charlotte Stacey Tottenham Hotspur manager Robert Vilahamn spoke to the media after Spurs' 4-0 defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup final. Here is what he had to say... On his feelings at the final whistle: It's not fun to lose a final in big numbers but on the other hand I think Manchester United played a really good game. They hurt us, had really good quality so sometimes you just have to think 'ok, they've just had a really good day.' That first goal was a little bit tough for us just on the half time break because the first half was still quite competitive. We tried to find ways in the second half but they scored two goals quite quickly and we are all over the place. It's really hard to play 3-0 down and when they are shining of course. On the other hand we need to look at the whole FA Cup and realise we played at Wembley today. We are here to get an experience and a love for this game so even if it's really tough now we know that we're going to be really proud when we finish this season. On players feeling the pressure of a big occasion: Most of the players of Man United were here last year, they had experience of that. And I think most of our players were still performing to their best so that first goal [hurts us]. We had chances as well, but we're going to learn from this and the players will learn much about how their bodies are working in these kinds of games. That's what we want, we want these big games and to be able to perform. And also for me, I've never been here as a coach before so it's a great experience. How you communicate with the players, it's so loud, so hard to reach them,. So very, tough to lose but it's a learning process and this is the first step . On moving forward as One Club: We've got this experience this year to play at the [Tottenham Hotspur] stadium two times and a final here. It's not only the players, the coaches, it's the media team, it's the whole club and how we get around stuff and prepare stuff. It's a really good journey we've done this year. If we want to continue, to be a top team, this experience will help us. We couldn't do it today and I'm sad for the fans but I also know that we will come back. it's not the end, it's actually just the beginning. On supporting players after the game: The main thing I said that this is not the end. We have learnt so much this year and actually reached the final. Yeah, we could've won it as well, but on the other hand, Man United deserve it. So we also need to look at it like 'what a performance they've had, they've had experience in the big stadium as well.' It's ok to have feelings. It's ok to feel angry, sad, whatever they want to be because that's part of football. You should feel that today because you want to win next time. We're going to close this year and we're going to realise we were in the final, we were top six in the league and we're probably going to feel like we've had a good year. On goalkeeper Becky Spencer's error that led to Lucia Garcia's first goal: I'm taking that goal on me actually. Because that's how I want her to play. The goalkeeper will make mistakes every year when you play the style we do, it's just unfortunately she did it in the final. But on the other hand she showed us that she will be brave so I'm going to make sure I'm going to support her on Tuesday. Make sure she knows. She's a very mature woman and a cool girl, she will solve this, I know that. It's no problem. Of course I'm going to make sure that I tell her that she is a great goalkeeper. Very on the ball and she should continue dictating the build-up for us because she is great with that. News

Adam Salter is an Arsenal superfan and a blogger extraordinaire. We caught up with Adam to chat about his journey into women’s football and why it is has become so important to his everyday life. Back Hand over the mic: Adam Salter Adam Salter is an Arsenal superfan and a blogger extraordinaire. We caught up with Adam to chat about his journey into women’s football and why it is has become so important to his everyday life. Adam meeting Arsenal players Jill Roord, Daniëlle van de Donk, Lia Wälti and Beth Mead. 2 August 2021 By Charlotte Stacey What was apparent from the onset was Adam’s unconditional commitment not only to Arsenal, but to women’s football as a whole, and so his very first statement upon being asked how this came to be was a rather surprising one. “I hated football” he reveals, “I couldn’t stand it. I grew up in a house that had no interest in football. I didn’t come from a family of Arsenal fans who inducted me into it. The only sport we watched was Wimbledon tennis or perhaps the Olympics. Sport really had no place in our house.” Adam goes onto recount his schooldays describing himself as an academic with little aptitude for playground sports. His parents’ decision to enrol him in after school football paired with the rather relatable conundrum of playground popularity only served to deepen his dislike of the beautiful game. Yet, as the familiar tale goes, school politics demanded something of Adam. He applied himself to chancing football once again, this time trying his hand between the sticks. It was here, during his first match in goal, that Adam recognises a lightbulb moment. “The first match, I did it. I saved a penalty and everyone went mad because they knew I was rubbish at sport. It was that moment where suddenly everything just clicked. I understood why football was great and I understood why it was such an amazing sport and I knew I wanted more of it.” Adam's first visit to Meadow Park. Interest piqued; Adam invested his curiosity in to Arsenal football club. However, it wasn’t until 2007 after flicking through the television channels and finding a match being broadcast on the BBC, that he was exposed to Arsenal’s women’s team. The match Adam recalls is Arsenal’s FA Cup final against Charlton Athletic, in which the Gunners beat the Addicks 4-1. He honestly recalls that, at the time, it was “strange” to see a women’s side being shown on terrestrial television. “I thought I’ll watch it. Arsenal is Arsenal, it doesn’t matter, man or woman.” From that point, with a connection to women’s football born, Adam sought to follow the progress of both Arsenal men and Arsenal women. However, his newfound fondness of the women’s team was a frustrating venture compared to the easily accessible men’s side. “I wanted to know more about them. But I didn’t because there was nothing out there. You’d go online and resources weren’t there to find out [about them]. You’d look on the TV and think, well, where are they playing, where are these games? The only games you saw were Lionesses games, and only occasionally.” Adam recounts that this first exposure to women’s football turned out to be an exasperating affair. Admitting that he did not keep up with proceedings as much as he would have liked, Adam speaks in depth at the lack of televised coverage and archived reading material. “Because there was never the coverage, I never really followed the leagues, never really followed the WSL. There’s a whole history that feels missed because the coverage wasn’t there.” Moving on to speaking about the Lionesses, Adam notes that even for the national team, although exposure was marginally better, information was hard to come by. The 2009 European Championships, in which England reached the final, was a struggle to keep up with without personal research in sourcing the streaming of matches. “Even then I couldn’t really watch it because it was all news reports after the event. It was a momentous achievement to get to the final. [They were] much more successful than the men’s side who, at the time, couldn’t even qualify for the European championships. It was almost like ‘secret football’ and we were doing really well but no-one really knows about it.” After loosely following the Lionesses and their international successes for a number of years, Adam stumbled back into league football just as Joe Montemurro’s Arsenal were on the cusp of winning the Women’s Super League in 2019. “I knew they were doing well. They had beaten Chelsea 5-0, gone to Brighton and won 4-0. And so, I followed their running and I thought, that’s it, I’m going to follow them properly now.” This just so happen to coincide with coverage of the WSL. A handful of matches could be found on the BBC Red Button, BT Sport and occasionally on social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook. As Adam recommitted, he reports a conscious effort to re-learn his team. Gone were Arsenal staples Kelly Smith, Rachel Yankey and Alex Scott, in their place were Gunner legends in the making Vivianne Miedema and Daniëlle van de Donk. He thrust himself into every opportunity that presented itself, amongst them a meeting with four Arsenal players and a group zoom call with Kelly Smith. Research complete, in the winter of 2019 Adam attended his first game at Meadow Park; Arsenal versus Birmingham City. Arsenal at Meadow Park. “It was like nothing I’d ever experienced before. It was incredible. I’d been to Arsenal men’s games and you turn up and you get a win, it’s great, a good atmosphere, but there was something different about going to a women’s game at Meadow Park.” “There was a closeness that you don’t get going to watch a game at the Emirates….it was like being part of a secret family, everyone was nice to each other, there was no nastiness. I thought it would just be local Arsenal fans, but there were people that had come over from other countries as well and I just thought, I need to do this again. An incredible experience.” Of course, just a few months later the Covid-19 pandemic meant that the season, and indeed the country, were shut-down. Yet, with the magic of Jordan Nobbs’ wonder goal still fresh in his mind, Adam turned his attention to Twitter. After rejuvenising his account, Adam first entered a ‘pub quiz’ competition in which the winner would receive a follow from Arsenal football club. “I won”, Adam recalls, surprise still evident on his face, “it was madness, I got a follow from Arsenal. It gave me confidence, and I thought maybe I can get some movement here. I started to talk about Arsenal, follow people who I knew liked Arsenal and just got some communication out there.” With honesty, Adam identifies the negativity Twitter can dump on to one’s lap, yet earnestly appreciates the importance of the social media platform and its surface function to keep connected during the initial lockdown. Through his connections on Twitter, Adam was invited onto a podcast to discuss his thoughts regarding Arsenal’s one upcoming game, their Champions League quarter final clash against PSG. “I ended up doing a few episodes with them and it was fantastic. I realised that I could actually have a valid educated opinion on women’s football.” Adam’s developing knowledge left him with the feeling that Twitter no longer allowed him the space to stamp down his opinions. After seeking guidance from established writers, Adam set up his own website and has been regularly blogging ever since. Reflecting on his experiences so far Adam monologues with great appreciation, sincerity pouring from every word. “I owe women’s football a great deal of gratitude as it’s really taken me out of my shell. I’ve gone from doing my own thing, going to work and staying at home, to talking to people all over the world." "I owe it to these small moments, passing moments that could’ve gone like dust in the wind. It’s just twisted my life in such subtle ways to put me where I am now. Now I just want to get back to Meadow Park and watch a game!” As our interview drew to an end, Adam touched on where he thinks the future of women’s football is heading. “Do I think it should be as good as the men’s? No. I think it should be better. Women’s football is a game that has its heart, there is a purity to it that I would hate to see tarnished, but at the same time it needs money.” “We either need owners that put enough in to make it sustainable or the women’s teams [of affiliate clubs] will have to become separate entities, similarly to the London City Lionesses who were once part of Milwall. There needs to be a proper funding system in place moneywise to make it financially stable.” “When you think talented players go [to other clubs] on a free. Van de Donk, which is madness. If Ronaldo left Juventus on a free the world would lose their mind. If women’s football is to remain sustainable, it needs to become so not just from a football perspective but from an economic perspective.” “The new TV deals are great. Sky are on board and games on the BBC which is good so we can still watch some games live on a terrestrial channel. I want to see it grow, I want to see them playing in the big stadiums, I’m loving that the Champions League is getting bigger. I would love to see more teams in the WSL. Maybe 15 or 16 as the season sometimes feels too short. But clubs like Leicester I’m really excited to see, they [owners] really care about the club and are taking them forward. I’m hoping in the next 5-10 years we will have well run clubs that have investment and players have value, but I wouldn’t want it to get to the high financial price of the men’s because I think that would ruin it. But I think it’s a positive future.” Rounding up his time in the women’s game so far, Adam eloquently wraps up his journey in women’s football with one touching statement. “It’s been a heck of a ride from catching a glance at the TV to now, I wonder how things could’ve been different, but really I’m so glad things are as they are.” Check out Adam's blog here: https://adamsarsenalblog.wordpress.com/ Womens Football, Adam Salter, Arsenal Women, Arsenal, Women's Super League

Arsenal have confirmed that Leah Williamson has signed a new contract at the club. Back Leah Williamson signs new contract with The Arsenal Arsenal have confirmed that Leah Williamson has signed a new contract at the club. Via Arsenal Women FC 12 January 2022 By Josh Bunting The 24 year old defender who can also operate in midfield was out of contract this summer however , the Milton Keynes native has decided to put pen to paper on a new deal. Williamson who is currently out with a hamstring injury has been with the Gunners since she was 9 ,and has gone on to make 179 appearances to date for the north London side. Williamson signed a new contract last summer but only for one more year seeking that the club improved its all round structure. With Nikita Parris , Tobin Heath and Frida Maanum signing and with the Gunners currently top of the WSL, it shows a real sign of ambition with the defender deciding staying at her childhood club was the right decision. Williamson has also been capped by England 24 times and has captained her country on four occasions including against Northern Ireland at Wembley Stadium in October. She made her Arsenal debut against Birmingham City in the UEFA Women’s Champions League at the age of 16 ,and has become a crucial member of the squad as well as a fan’s favourite. During her time at the club Williamson has helped the club win the 2018/19 Barclays FA Women's Super League, two Continental Tyres League Cups and two Women's FA Cups. On signing the new deal Williamson told Arsenal.com “It was a dream come true the first time that I signed here and the feeling hasn’t changed. I’m as grateful as ever to have the opportunity to do what I do here – at home – and I’m very proud to continue to represent my family playing for Arsenal and to wear the badge.” Jonas Eidevall went on to add “It’s wonderful news that Leah has signed a new deal, as well as being a key player for us right now, she is also an integral part of our plans for the future – a player for us to build Arsenal around and show the young women in our academy what can be achieved through hard work, dedication and passion. I know Leah has a special bond with the fans too – it’s so important for the supporters to identify with the players and they certainly have that in Leah.” Head of women’s football at Arsenal Clare Wheatley also went on to explain “Leah is a crucial member of our squad and we are all delighted that she will be staying with us moving forward. This is an ambitious club and Leah has always been a vital part of our plans – I’m sure all the fans will be thrilled with the news that she has signed a new contract.” News

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