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A full A-Z of the Women's Super League (2020/21) A-Z of the WSL Wednesday, 28 October 2020 By Charlotte Stacey A full A-Z of the Women's Super League (2020/21) Catherine Ivill Tnners are gunning for that top spot. A is for Aston Villa Newly promoted Aston Villa have a tall order establishing themselves in their inaugural year in the top division. Villa gained promotion from the Championship after being unbeaten all season, and although the step up is a vast one, the Villans are not to be written off too soon. In their opener against Manchester City, Villa defended exceptionally well and kept City on their toes. Although they ultimately conceded two goals, they were by no means, outplayed. B is for Birmingham City Birmingham City needed a shake up after finding themselves close to relegation last season. Cue, Carla Ward. The Blue’s new manager has certainly taken the bull by the horns and breathed a fresh lease of life into the previously struggling side. Already Birmingham have impressed with their solid defensive work, as well as some outstanding individual performances, notably from newly acquired defender Rachel Corsie, midfielder Christine Murray and forward Claudia Walker. B is for Brighton & Hove Albion Former England manager, Hope Powell, heads up Brighton in her third year at the helm. After ending the 2019-2020 season in the latter half of the table, the Seagulls will be looking to climb to a middle position. True to this ethos, Brighton have made an admirable start, bagging a win and two draws from their first five games. Powell is developing a dangerous looking team, additions such as the technically gifted Denise O’Sullivan, bringing an impactful strength to the side this season. B is for Bristol City Tanya Oxtoby’s Bristol City have work to do to keep them out of the relegation zone this season. The Robins finished in tenth place last year, and will be looking to achieve the same this time round. Although they can find themselves on the back end of some big score lines, Bristol are capable of producing some very good play, as seen in their early match against Arsenal, in which they contained the Gunners with solidarity and even managed to sink a goal past Manuela Zinsberger. The Robins’ keeper Sophie Baggaley is a rising talent and is certainly one to keep your eye on. C is for Chelsea The reigning champions not only won last year’s league title, but also the Continental Cup and the reinstated Community Shield. The London Blues have brought in leading names across the year to defend their growing trophy cabinet. The signings of Sam Kerr, Melanie Leupolz, Niamh Charles and Pernille Harder have taken the staggering depth of Emma Hayes’ squad to a whole new level of primacy. Chelsea flaunt what is a rather pleasant dilemma, having at least two players for each position at any one time. In short, what Hayes is building is arguably, one of the best sides in the world The 2020-21 season is now well and truly underway, and although we may not be able to get up close and personal to the action this time round, there is still plenty to keep us excited in what is quite possibly, the biggest year of the league so far. So, let us steer you toward key players, pioneers and points, as we run you through a full A to Z of the Women’s Super League. A is for Arsenal: The North London giants have long dominated in the world of women’s football and have hordes of silverware to their name. The Gunners treasures include 3 WSL titles, 12 Premier League National Division titles, 5 Continental Cups, a mammoth 14 FA Cups and they also carry the honour of being the only English side to have ever won the UEFA Champions League. Arsenal have certainly started their season with a bang; big score lines, numerous hat tricks, and Vivianne Miedema’s history making 50th goal all conclude that there is no doubt, Joe Montemurro’s Gunners are gunning for that top spot. A is for Aston Villa: Newly promoted Aston Villa have a tall order establishing themselves in their inaugural year in the top division. Villa gained promotion from the Championship after being unbeaten all season, and although the step up is a vast one, the Villans are not to be written off too soon. In their opener against Manchester City, Villa defended exceptionally well and kept City on their toes. Although they ultimately conceded two goals, they were by no means, outplayed. B is for Birmingham City: Birmingham City needed a shake up after finding themselves close to relegation last season. Cue, Carla Ward. The Blue’s new manager has certainly taken the bull by the horns and breathed a fresh lease of life into the previously struggling side. Already Birmingham have impressed with their solid defensive work, as well as some outstanding individual performances, notably from newly acquired defender Rachel Corsie, midfielder Christine Murray and forward Claudia Walker. B is for Brighton & Hove Albion: Former England manager, Hope Powell, heads up Brighton in her third year at the helm. After ending the 2019-2020 season in the latter half of the table, the Seagulls will be looking to climb to a middle position. True to this ethos, Brighton have made an admirable start, bagging a win and two draws from their first five games. Powell is developing a dangerous looking team, additions such as the technically gifted Denise O’Sullivan, bringing an impactful strength to the side this season. B is for Bristol City: Tanya Oxtoby’s Bristol City have work to do to keep them out of the relegation zone this season. The Robins finished in tenth place last year, and will be looking to achieve the same this time round. Although they can find themselves on the back end of some big score lines, Bristol are capable of producing some very good play, as seen in their early match against Arsenal, in which they contained the Gunners with solidarity and even managed to sink a goal past Manuela Zinsberger. The Robins’ keeper Sophie Baggaley is a rising talent and is certainly one to keep your eye on. C is for Chelsea: The reigning champions not only won last year’s league title, but also the Continental Cup and the reinstated Community Shield. The London Blues have brought in leading names across the year to defend their growing trophy cabinet. The signings of Sam Kerr, Melanie Leupolz, Niamh Charles and Pernille Harder have taken the staggering depth of Emma Hayes’ squad to a whole new level of primacy. Chelsea flaunt what is a rather pleasant dilemma, having at least two players for each position at any one time. In short, what Hayes is building is arguably, one of the best sides in the world. D is for Gemma Davies: Aston Villa’s Gemma Davies, leads her team into the WSL as the league’s youngest manager. At just 28, Davies heads up the Villans in top tier after an outstanding season in the Championship. Davies has acquired former Chelsea defender Anita Asante to add to her ranks, which already include former WSL players Emma Follis and Chloe Arthur. Davies has a tough stint ahead of her, but after such a remarkable run last year, there is no doubt that she is up to the job. E is for Everton: Everton have been the surprise of the season so far, seriously challenging for a higher position in the table after finishing a reputable sixth last year. Willie Kirk’s side have attacked the early part of the season with an appetite that looks to threaten the leagues typically expected outcome. Australia’s Hayley Raso, Scotland’s Claire Emslie and France’s Valérie Gauvin have brought with them an added energy and flair, making the Toffee’s all the more exciting to watch. F is for Fara Williams MBE: Reading’s anchor, Fara Williams, is one of the league’s, and the country’s, most experienced players. She is the Lionesses most capped player of all time, having made 172 appearances so far, and is well on her way to achieving the same in the domestic league. The midfielder is renowned for her passing accuracy and merciless free kicks. Williams’ name should be known far and wide; she is an endless pioneer of the women’s game, her continued resilience and courage an inspiration to many. G is for Goalkeeping: Perhaps sometimes a little over looked for their efforts, goalkeepers can often take the brunt of a bad day. Yet undeterred by such woes, the WSL boasts some rather fine work between the posts. Whether it is the developing gifts of Manchester City’s Ellie Roebuck, Birmingham City’s Hannah Hampton, Bristol City’s Sophie Baggaley or Aston Villa’s Sian Rogers; the growing expertise of Arsenal’s Manuela Zinsberger, Reading's Grace Maloney, Tottenham’s Becky Spencer or Manchester United’s Mary Earps; the experience of Chelsea duo Ann-Katrin Berger and Carly Telford; or City’s trusted Karen Bardsley; there is never a shortage of goalkeeping talent on display. H is for Lauren Hemp: Manchester City forward, Lauren Hemp, had a magnificent season last year, so much so that she received her first senior call-up and subsequent debut for the Lionesses. Hemp was a standout player in England’s SheBelieves campaign, in which she ran rings around a certain World Cup winning side. With an instinct that sees her attack games with a proficiency, vigour and pace that is incomprehensible at times, Hemp is most certainly one to watch. I is for Sophie Ingle: Wales captain, Sophie Ingle, is one that doesn’t necessarily jump out at you, yet the Chelsea midfielder is one of the league’s most accomplished players. Ingle is calm, she is collected and she does her job with such little fuss that sometimes one neglects to remember just how important she is. Ingle safeguards Chelsea, quietly dictating from the middle. But just to make sure we’re not resting easy, every now and again, she’ll treat us to a piece of Ingle magic and net an absolute screamer. J is for Ji So-Yun: Chelsea’s Ji So-Yun is quite simply a force to be reckoned with. Her movement, vision and creativity are astonishing, and when given the freedom to roam there is no stopping her. The midfielder effortlessly makes the most challenging of scenarios seem positively easy to navigate. To compare her to another is difficult, but it would be fair to say that, although they are rare, Ji’s bad days are still overtly favourable by anybody else’s standard’s. K is for Kim Little: Arsenal captain, Kim Little, is a player that needs no introduction. Often regarded as one of the most difficult players to come up against, Arsenal’s play is elevated just that little (pardon the pun!) bit further when she is on the field. Not the most vocal of leaders, Little instead leads by example, letting her feet do the talking. Her exemplary passing ability and movement concur with her ever-present vision, causing her to be one of the league’s most dangerous playmakers. L is for Lucy Bronze: England defender Lucy Bronze is widely, and rightfully, considered as one of the best right backs in the world. Bronze has returned to the WSL with former club Manchester City after a three-year spell with French Champions Olympique Lyonnais. Bronze’s time at Lyon was nothing short of remarkable, and she ended her time there as the only English player in history to have won three consecutive Champions League titles. The fullback is perilous in every game she plays. M is for Manchester City: Finishing in second place last season, Manchester City are aiming high, playing to keep their place in the “top three” after dominance in the past few years. New boss, Gareth Taylor inherited a fine side from the recently departed Nick Cushing, including no less than twelve Lionesses. City managed to secure a number of big names in their transfer window, including defender Lucy Bronze, USA midfielders Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle and Everton’s star striker, Chloe Kelly. Mewis and Kelly, in particular, have caused problems for oppositions and look to be very influential indeed. M is for Manchester United: Casey Stoney’s Red Devil’s certainly look to mean business this year. After respectably finishing in fourth place last season, United’s six incredibly strong summer signings could very well see them begin to give the “top three” a run for their money. As recruitment goes, Stoney has pulled out all the stops, signing Spanish defender Ona Battle, German forward Ivana Fuso, Lionesses Lucy Staniforth and Alessia Russo, as well as world champions Tobin Heath and Christen Press. N is for Ashleigh Neville: Yes, there is more than one Neville in English women’s football. Whilst Phil Neville closes out his tenure with the Lionesses, defender Ashleigh Neville continues to build a solid reputation on the pitch with the Lilywhites. The fullback is a principal figure in Tottenham’s defence. Sprightly runs, clever interceptions and a developing capability of keeping the most devilish of oppositions contained means she is sure to catch your eye. O is for Overseas Talent: The WSL has seen an influx of overseas talent over the past couple of years; players have hailed from every corner of the globe to join the top tier of English football, which speaks volumes as to the growing quality of the league. Amongst these are Australia’s Sam Kerr, Alanna Kennedy, Emily van Egmond, Cailtin Foord, Lydia Williams, and Hayley Raso; Switzerland’s Lia Wälti, Alisha Lehmann and Malin Gut; Dutch powerhouses Vivianne Miedema, Daniëlle van de Donk, Inessa Kaagman, Siri Worm, Danique Kerkdijk, Jackie Groenen and Jill Roord; Norwegian stars Maren Mjelde, Aurora Mikalsen, Maria Thorisdottir, Ingrid Moe Wold, Cecile Redisch and Guro Reiten; Denmark’s finest, Pernille Harder, Stine Larsen and Nicoline Sørensen; Sweden’s Madgalena Eriksson, Lotta Okvist, Nor Mustafa and Jonna Andersson; New Zealand’s Ria Percival and Rebekah Scott, as well as sharp Canadians, Shelina Zadorsky, Adriana Leon and Janine Beckie. With these players enhancing the already abundant talent from the four home nations, the WSL is the place to be. P is for Pernille Harder: Danish captain, Pernille Harder, made history as the most expensive signing in women’s football ever, with a transfer fee of a suspected €300,000 in her move to Chelsea from German Champions, Wolfsburg, in the summer. Striker, Harder, known for her positional excellence and notable finish, comes to the English league with a success of victories under her belt, including four Bundesliga titles. The 27-year-old was also named as UEFA’s Player of the Year in 2018, and has been most recently won Germany’s Women’s Footballer of the Year. Q is for Quality: There is often a lot of comparison between the men’s and women’s game, typically with the onus of the difference in “quality”. Whilst there will always be differences of opinion on this, the Women’s Super League unequivocally has a tremendous amount of “quality” running though it. World class players from across the globe, World Cup winners, captains of the four home nations, developing youth, intensifying competition; it’s all there for the taking. R is for Reading: With a simmering pool of experience in their ranks, Reading are not to be underestimated. Welsh midfielder Jess Fishlock, England’s Fara Williams, Scotland’s stout defender Emma Mitchell, the recently recovered Danielle Carter and captain Natasha Harding at the very core of the maturing side. The knowledge these players bring to Kelly Chambers’ squad should certainly not be overlooked this season. S is for Sandy MacIver: Everton’s Sandy MacIver, is one of the league’s most exciting goalkeeping prospects, and she looks ready to prove herself the same with England. Since returning to the WSL in January, the 22-year-old has been one of the Toffee’s stand out players. Her critical decisiveness has been hugely influential in Everton’s impressive start to the season thus far. Duly noted by Lionesses boss Phil Neville, MacIver was called up to this year’s SheBelieves Cup, as well as the recent consecutive training camps, marking her as a future England staple. T is for Tottenham Hotspur: Head Coaches, Karen Hills and Juan Amos, had an active transfer window, bringing in the experience of Rachel Williams and Kerys Harrop from Birmingham City, as well as bagging USWNT forward, Alex Morgan, from NWSL side, Orlando Pride. Spurs finished in 7th place last season and will be looking for more of the same this time round. The early fixtures haven’t been particularly kind to the Lilywhites, but there is still plenty of football left to play. Big performances from Lucia Leon, Gemma Davison and Becky Spencer look set to continue as Spurs head into their upcoming games. U is for USA: Five, yes, FIVE, World Cup winning USWNT players have made the move across the pond. Four have landed either side of Manchester and the other in North London. Forwards, Tobin Heath and Christen Press have bolstered Manchester United’s attacking ranks, making them all the more dangerous. Whereas Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle have opted for a Manchester blue, completing City’s finely-tuned set of midfield maestros. USWNT captain and new Mum, Alex Morgan, has joined Tottenham Hotspur just five months after giving birth, her hotly anticipated debut will hopefully soon be upon us. V is for Vivianne Miedema: Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema is one of the greatest strikers in the world; a statement that on the face of it may seem a little exaggerated, but one that is absolutely true. The Dutch forwards efforts often make the extraordinary seem anything but. She recently became the league’s all-time top goalscorer reaching 50 goals in 50 games, significantly succeeding Nikita Parris’ 50 in 110 games by some margin. Miedema has also achieved the same feat with her country, she is Holland’s leading goalscorer in both the men’s and women’s sides. W is for West Ham: Matt Beard’s West Ham ended last season in 8th place, four points behind fellow London club Tottenham Hotspur. The Iron’s first few games have been tough, the table perhaps not baring a true reflection of their performances thus far. Yet, with steadfast captain Gilly Flaherty on hand, as well as Swiss dynamo, Alisha Lehmann, and Houston Dash captain, Rachel Daly, bringing an attacking fire power, the Irons will surely shake themselves into gear before long. X is for Ex-Players: As the league grows, so does the level of coverage surrounding it. Fortunately, the WSL is on its way to obtaining the punditry and commentary it so deserves. Much of this comes in the form of ex-players who use their first-hand knowledge to provide in-depth analysis, justified criticism and honest reviews. Alex Scott, Karen Carney, Siobhan Chamberlain, Rachel Brown-Finnis, Rachel Yankey and Jane Ludlow are amongst those offering their expertise, spearheading the mainstream broadcasting of the game in the right direction. Y is for Youngsters: Coursing through the league is a throng of budding young talent, each ripening with every match played. Manchester City’s Chloe Kelly, Esme Morgan and Ellie Roebuck; Manchester United’s Ella Toone and star-in-waiting, Lauren James; West Ham’s Alisha Lehmann and Grace Fisk; Brighton’s Maya Le Tissier; Birmingham’s Jamie-Lee Naiper and Hannah Hampton, and Chelsea forward Niamh Charles are all sure to impress. Z is for Katie Zelem: Manchester United captain, Katie Zelem, is fast proving herself as the perfect leader to drive Casey Stoney’s Red Devil’s to the next level. The midfielder sits at the heart of United, often dictating the pace and flow of play, and she is also pretty handy with a set piece as well. Zelem has kicked off her season in style. Not only did she manage to grab Player of the Match in United’s opener against champions Chelsea, but her growing leadership and pinpoint accuracy have led to her first senior call-ups with the Lionesses.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Maya Le Tissier Youngster Maya Le Tissier has slotted straight into Manchester United’s backline in what has been their most successful season to date. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes Le Tissier one of the country’s most exciting young talents, but upon observation it quickly becomes clear that the defender will be a feature in the national team for years to come. Primarily positioned as a centre-back, twenty-year-old Le Tissier plays with a wisdom that keeps her team in check. She can be physical when the time calls for it, but where Le Tissier really shines is with her awareness. The defender has an acute understanding of her surroundings meaning she approaches situations with good decision and rationality. This also aids itself to favourable defensive positioning as well as optimal passing routes to both settle play and trigger build-up. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Get to know every member of the current Lionesses squad. Lionesses Squad Jess Park Attacking midfielder Jess Park is about as lively as they come. With incredible pace and dribbling skills, Park can be a real handful to keep a hold of. This season Park has come to the forefront in her spell with Everton, demonstrating skill in both scoring and assisting, typically from wider areas. Park likes to stretch oppositions by drifting out to the wing before taking on fullbacks when in possession. Being comfortable up close and personal to the touchlines has allowed Park to develop a unique trickery in getting out of tight areas, pulling off inspired manoeuvres when doing so. To further instate the impact the youngster can have, Park scored her first international goal just a minute after making her debut appearance for England against Japan last November. Photograph courtesy of the FA.

Crystal Palace v Sunderland Photographer Ryan Asman Crystal Palace were crowned Women's Championship champions in front of a record crowd at Selhurst Park. The Eagles held visitors Sunderland to a 0-0 draw as neither side were able to make the most of their chances to break the deadlock. Crystal Palace have earned promotion and will compete in the Women's Super League for the 2024/25 season.

A tribute to Kent United goalkeeper Jordan Dawes. In Loving Memory of Jordan Dawes Saturday, 20 February 2021 By Charlotte Stacey A tribute to Kent United goalkeeper Jordan Dawes. All photographs courtesy of the Dawes family. The 22nd February 2021 marks the second anniversary of the passing of Kent Football United goalkeeper, Jordan Dawes. Long before the world heard the news of “the illness of the teenage goalkeeper”, I had heard plenty about “my friend from work, Jordan”. In fact, for an entire year before her death, Jordan’s name regularly infused conversations in my house. My close friend Emily worked with Jordan at a local Hotel Diner and often spoke of her. Knowing we had a shared interest in football, I felt a pang of fondness toward Jordan. To this day I am regretful that I was never able to meet her, I am sure we would have had plenty to talk about. With the permission of her family - Mum, Michelle, Dad, Rob, brother, Luke and sister-in-law, Molly - Emily and I sat down together to speak about Jordan. Emily begins slowly, stirring resting memories that are seemingly reluctant to be disturbed, the good and the bad. Yet I would like to be very clear, this was not a sombre affair. Anything but. Emily speaks about Jordan with such an affection, a warmth so genuine that with every word uttered it feels as if I am truly seeing her. “She loved The Lion King and One Direction” is one of the first things Emily says and just like that eighteen-year-old Jordan is with us. The typical teenager with a love for music, Disney and Netflix. “She liked just normal things. We would go round and just watch films, right up until the end.” A flash backwards and Emily quickly notes that she had not known Jordan for very long. “I think it was just over a year”, yet the impression Jordan has left upon her is striking. A memory of a recently bereaved Emily catches me, she is shakenly asking no one in particular, “I’ve never had anything like this, what do I do?” A stark reminder that time and the people we wish to spend it with do not always go hand in hand. As we continue, what started as a trickle soon became a downpour. We find ourselves in an intimate occasion in which a person opens themselves up without fear of repercussion as Emily begins to describe Jordan with a fluid vivacity. It becomes difficult to not consider that she has unwittingly been waiting to speak so frankly for quite some time. What forms is a vibrant picture of a selfless individual, one that was willing to go above and beyond to make the lives easier of those around her. “She was one of those people who never wanted to let anyone down. She was always trying to do more, always offering to cover people’s shifts and things like that. I used to say to her, ‘Jordan, it’s fine, you don’t have to cover the shifts if it’s too much.’ But that was just it, it was never too much.” Earlier than expected, we find ourselves speaking about football. “She was very good. I’ll admit I don’t know a lot about football, but even I know she was really good at what she did. There was this one save she made that everyone went mad about. People still talk about it now.” Emily is referring to the 2018 Kent Reliance Women’s Cup final. After drawing 1-1, the match that ended up going to penalties and Jordan’s spectacular footed save meant Kent Football United lifted the silverware. The 22nd February 2021 marks the second anniversary of the passing of Kent Football United goalkeeper, Jordan Dawes. Long before the world heard the news of “the illness of the teenage goalkeeper”, I had heard plenty about “my friend from work, Jordan”. In fact, for an entire year before her death, Jordan’s name regularly infused conversations in my house. My close friend Emily worked with Jordan at a local Hotel Diner and often spoke of her. Knowing we had a shared interest in football, I felt a pang of fondness toward Jordan. To this day I am regretful that I was never able to meet her, I am sure we would have had plenty to talk about. With the permission of her family - Mum, Michelle, Dad, Rob, brother, Luke and sister-in-law, Molly - Emily and I sat down together to speak about Jordan. Emily begins slowly, stirring resting memories that are seemingly reluctant to be disturbed, the good and the bad. Yet I would like to be very clear, this was not a sombre affair. Anything but. Emily speaks about Jordan with such an affection, a warmth so genuine that with every word uttered it feels as if I am truly seeing her. “She loved The Lion King and One Direction” is one of the first things Emily says and just like that eighteen-year-old Jordan is with us. The typical teenager with a love for music, Disney and Netflix. “She liked just normal things. We would go round and just watch films, right up until the end.” A flash backwards and Emily quickly notes that she had not known Jordan for very long. “I think it was just over a year” , yet the impression Jordan has left upon her is striking. A memory of a recently bereaved Emily catches me, she is shakenly asking no one in particular, “I’ve never had anything like this, what do I do?” A stark reminder that time and the people we wish to spend it with do not always go hand in hand. As we continue, what started as a trickle soon became a downpour. We find ourselves in an intimate occasion in which a person opens themselves up without fear of repercussion as Emily begins to describe Jordan with a fluid vivacity. It becomes difficult to not consider that she has unwittingly been waiting to speak so frankly for quite some time. What forms is a vibrant picture of a selfless individual, one that was willing to go above and beyond to make the lives easier of those around her. “She was one of those people who never wanted to let anyone down. She was always trying to do more, always offering to cover people’s shifts and things like that. I used to say to her, ‘Jordan, it’s fine, you don’t have to cover the shifts if it’s too much.’ But that was just it, it was never too much.” Earlier than expected, we find ourselves speaking about football. “ She was very good. I’ll admit I don’t know a lot about football, but even I know she was really good at what she did. There was this one save she made that everyone went mad about. People still talk about it now.” Emily is referring to the 2018 Kent Reliance Women’s Cup final. After drawing 1-1, the match that ended up going to penalties and Jordan’s spectacular footed save meant Kent Football United lifted the silverware. Jordan’s football career was an illustrious one and one that undoubtably would have continued up the pyramid. The Dawes family detail Jordan’s extensive career, one that began like many others. Jordan started out playing for a boys team, Titan Tigers, as well as playing for her primary and secondary schools respectively. Jordan’s Mum, Michelle, goes on to explain that she also played for Kent Schools FA, Orpington District, Charlton Athletic, Gillingham and Kent Football United. Furthering Emily’s declaration of Jordan’s skill as a goalkeeper, Michelle explains that Jordan was in the application process for a scholarship in America, “ it looked like she was getting a full scholarship”. Upon asking Michelle what Jordan’s footballing aspirations were, she sincerely replied, “she wanted to go all the way.” Jordan’s former coach, Charlton Athletic and Northern Ireland midfielder Ciara Watling, graciously expressed her admiration of Jordan’s dedication to her sport. “Jordan was an amazing goalkeeper, she had it all! She has been with Gillingham and Charlton, but when I met her, she was playing for a local team, Kent Football United. Her dream was to go to America and play out there which sadly she didn’t get to do, but I know she would’ve succeeded out there and I have no doubt she would’ve come back and played at a high level over here, easily in the Championship.” “She was a very shy girl at first”, Ciara adds, “but she soon came out of her shell and brought a bit of sass with her, always working hard with her goalkeeper coach Neale at APD as well. I loved working with Jordan and the team, the girls were a real unique bunch and made me laugh all day every day.” Jordan was an avid Manchester United fan and was ecstatic to learn they were forming a women’s team. The news was made even sweeter when it was announced goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain would be joining, and that former defender, Casey Stoney, would be taking the helm. Michelle reveals that Chamberlain and Stoney were two of Jordan’s footballing heroes, along with United keeper, David De Gea. After informing Michelle of Manchester United’s success in the WSL, I asked how Jordan may have reacted to this. “J would love it!” A response that fetches a smile. “She got to meet them” , Emily says as I enlighten her on Stoney’s Red Devils. “She met them and went on the pitch and everything.” Emily is speaking about Manchester United’s game against Charlton in January 2019, in which Jordan led the team out whilst wearing Chamberlain’s shirt. “She kept coming into work saying she had headaches and that they were getting worse. She had migraines at work”, Emily starts as we begin to speak about Jordan’s last months. She takes me back to 22nd November 2018, the day that began just like any other. “I was at work and my manager came over to me and he asked me to read a text. It was from Jordan’s Mum and it said ‘We’re in the hospital, J’s had a stroke.’” Emily takes a second, her eyes, for the first time, telling of the pain that is still very real. She goes on to lay out the timeline that followed. “ All we could think was, why did this eighteen-year-old active girl have a stroke?” Unfortunately, the answer was nothing anyone could have imagined. Jordan had liver cancer. She was moved to a London hospital where the Dawes’ then learned of the heart-breaking prognosis, the cancer had spread and there was nothing anyone could do. Just before Christmas, Jordan returned home where the Dawes’, even in their toughest time, on their hardest days, opened their doors to friends and family to visit Jordan as and when they wished. Emily gushes over the Dawes’, “they are the nicest family you’ll ever meet. So lovely, so welcoming, all of them – aunts, cousins, uncles - all of them.” As she begins to describe Jordan’s Mum, Michelle, an upturned smile begins to take shape. Emily speaks with an overwhelming respect, as only someone who has witnessed a person burden a living nightmare can. “ Her Mum did not leave her side. Honestly, she did not leave her at all. Only once did I ever see her [Michelle] cry. She is so strong, she always put on a brave face and never let it show.” As she continues to talk, Emily begins to laugh. She jovially recalls Jordan insisting on being able to go in the hot tub. “She was adamant she was going in” , she jokes, “Her Mum was doing everything she could to put her off because she’d have to be lifted, but she wasn’t having any of it. She was going in. So, there we all were, standing outside absolutely freezing, it was about January time, and there she was, in the tub having a great time just chilling.” “And she wanted this pink Nike bag.” She carries on, the memories tumbling out thick and fast now. “It was to hold the medication that was being pumped into her arm. I don’t know what it was about it, but she just kept going on about this bag.” And there she was. Jordan. The figure that retained that pitch side determination, the girl who’s sense of humour never faltered, who remained her lovable self until the very end. As our conversation draws to a close, Emily recounts Jordan’s last days. On her final Thursday, Jordan was moved to Ellenor Hospice where she peacefully passed on 22nd February 2019. Jordan’s funeral, or ‘celebration day’, as is the preferred term, was attended by roughly eight hundred people. “It was packed, there were so many people that they were spilling over outside.” But further than this, Emily explains a particular incident that occurred on this day and has done on every day that represents Jordan since. “It’s so strange” , her eyes widen in disbelief, “on every ‘Jordan day’ there is a rainbow. I kid you not. Every time.” As if confirming this to herself, she shows me a photograph of a rainbow spanning the sky on the day of Jordan’s service. Emily begins to speak of Jordan’s family once again. “ They like to give back” she says, alluding to the Dawes’ eternal gratefulness for the opportunities Jordan was able to have. The Dawes family, and those close to them, continue to organise fundraisers in order to “give back” to the charities that supported them. Their next fundraiser will be a Tough Mudder in September. It is through these events, these friends and family members that Jordan lives on. Through them she will be forever remembered for everything she was on the pitch and everything she was off of it. For it is clear that Jordan Dawes was someone rather special, someone who brought the sun even when she felt the rain. Just like a rainbow. With special thanks to The Dawes Family, Emily Collins and Ciara Watling. Charities: Ellenor Hospice, Clic Sargent, Rays of Sunshine, Emily Ash Trust, Alexandra Sales Trust

'Unsuitable for Females': The Rise of the Lionesses and Women's Football in England by Carrie Dunn 'Unsuitable for Females' 'Unsuitable for Females': The Rise of the Lionesses and Women's Football in England by Carrie Dunn England's Lionesses are on the front and back pages; their stars feature on prime-time television; they are named in the national honours lists for their contribution to their sport and to society. The names of Lucy Bronze, Steph Houghton and Ellen White are emblazoned across the backs of children’s replica jerseys. These women are top athletes – and top celebrities. But in 1921, the Football Association introduced a ban on women’s football, pronouncing the sport 'quite unsuitable for females'. That ban would last for half a century - but despite official prohibition the women’s game went underground. From the Dick, Kerr Ladies touring the world to the Lost Lionesses who played at the unsanctioned Women's World Cup in Mexico in 1971, generations of women defied the restrictions and laid the foundations for today's Lionesses - so much so that in 2018 England's Women’s Super League became the first fully professional league in Europe...when just a few decades previously women were forbidden to play the sport in England at all. This book tells the story of women’s football in England since its 19th-century inception through pen portraits of its trailblazers. The game might have once been banned because of its popularity – find out about the subversive women who kept organising their teams and matches despite the prohibition, who broke barriers and set records – the legends of the game who built the foundations of the stage upon which today’s stars flourish. Available to buy: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unsuitable-Females-Lionesses-Football-England/dp/1913759059/ref=pd_bxgy_img_sccl_2/257-3022985-0041206?pd_rd_w=8StAp&content-id=amzn1.sym.40f919ed-e530-4b1a-8d7e-39de6587208d&pf_rd_p=40f919ed-e530-4b1a-8d7e-39de6587208d&pf_rd_r=VR1JFVEYAQEF2K28M89H&pd_rd_wg=6wLEe&pd_rd_r=65f2f0c8-d912-46d2-bbd3-895ec626b467&pd_rd_i=1913759059&psc=1

Bristol City draw level with Southampton in front of 3600 strong crowd at Ashton Gate Back Match Report WC: Bristol City v Southampton Bristol City draw level with Southampton in front of 3600 strong crowd at Ashton Gate via Bristol City 28 September 2022 By Paul Donegan The points were shared between Bristol City and Southampton as the match between them finished 1-1 on Sunday at Ashton Gate. City took the lead during a first half in which they were the better side when Ffion Morgan scored. Southampton equalised soon after half time with Beth Lumsden scoring the goal. Both sides had chances after that but there were no more goals. Bristol City came into the match having won their first three games in the Championship, sitting top of the table and get to concede a goal. They made one change from their last match, a 1-0 win over Sunderland, with Ffion Morgan coming in for Jesse Woolley. Southampton had four points from their first three games and had an impressive 2-1 away win against Crystal Palace in their last match. They made two changes from that victory with Alice Griffiths and Ciara Watling replacing Leeta Rutherford and Paige Peake. Abi Harrison had the first chance for the home side in the 3rd minute but put the effort well wide of target. Harrison had another effort at goal two minutes later which was deflected on its way through and saved by Kayla Rendell. Aimee Palmer had The Robins next opportunity but sent a shot from distance over in the 7h minute. Bristol City were having chances every couple of minutes in the early stages. A low cross from Emily Syme was put behind for a corner in the 9th minute, and then Shania Hayles was just unable to get a touch on Harrison’s cross in front of goal in the 11th minute. A minute later, Morgan sent a cross onto the roof of the net, and Syme saw an effort go wide another minute on. Following the first 13 minutes, the game went through a quieter spell chance wise until the 28th minute when Harrison’s shot from 25-yards was saved by Rendell. Bristol City did take the lead in the 29th minute when Harrison sent a nice through ball to Morgan who took a touch and then sent a right-footed shot into the corner of the net. They had a chance to make it 2-0 in the 33rd minute when Morgan sent in a cross to Harrison but Rendell made a great save to keep the ball out. Southampton had their first chance of the match in the 37th minute but Katie Wilkinson saw her long-range shot caught easily by Fran Bentley. There were no more chances in the first half as Bristol City went in at half time deservedly ahead. Two minutes into the second half, Southampton equalised. Ella Morris put in a lovely cross which was finished first time by Lumsden from about 10-yards out for her first goal for the club and the first conceded by Bristol City this season. In the 50th minute, the home side had the next chance when Morgan saw an effort blocked after being played through. Wilkinson shot well wide for The Saints in the 60th minute. Six minutes later, Hayles saw a volleyed effort blocked from close range by Southampton defender Laura Rafferty. The second half was proving to be a lot more even than the first with opportunities at both ends. Palmer spotted the Southampton goalkeeper off the line in the 69th minute and sent a long-range lob towards goal but Rendell got back to touch the effort onto the crossbar. Southampton’s next chance came in the 76th minute when Wilkinson turned in the box but the effort was blocked by Lia Cataldo. Bristol City had a couple of penalty appeals for handball turned down in quick succession after that. Both sides went looking for a winner in the last 10 minutes. Bentley made a good save in the 83rd minute to push behind Lumsden’s low shot from the edge of the area. Five minutes later, Morgan’s shot from 25 yards was easily saved by Rendell. Wilkinson saw a long-range effort blocked in the 90th minute. The home side had the last chances of the match in additional time. Morgan was played through and manged to get a shot away whilst it looked like she was being pulled back but Rendell rushed out to block it. Then a cross from The Robins went right across goal but no one could get on the end of it. The final whistle went just after that and both sides had to settle for a point. Another good away result for Southampton though. A great attendance of 3,637 had been at Ashton Gate to watch. The result does keep Bristol City unbeaten and top of the Championship by a point from Charlton and Crystal Palace. Their next league match is away to Sheffield United on the 16th October. Before that, they play Palace at home in the Conti Cup next Sunday. Southampton are in seventh place with five points. They play Coventry United away in the Conti Cup next weekend. Their next league game is on 17th October when they are at home to Birmingham City. Line ups Bristol City: Bentley, Bruce, Powell, Layzell, Cataldo, Syme (Teisar 90’+2’), Palmer (c) (C. Bull 72’), Mustaki, Morgan, Harrison, Hayles (Woolley 78’) Unused substitutes : Clark, Boddy, Hutton, J. Bull, Wilde Goal – Morgan 29’ Southampton: Rendell, Collett, Rafferty, Parnell (C), Ward (Mott 46’), Morris, Watling (Rutherford 78’), Griffiths, Lloyd-Smith (Wynne 78’), Lumsden (Pusey 90’+2’), Wilkinson (Williams 90’+2’) Unused substitutes: Harris, Freeland Goal – Lumsden 47’ Referee – Ella Broad Attendance – 3,637

Bronze Rules by Simon Mugford Bronze Rules Bronze Rules by Simon Mugford Is Lucy Bronze your ultimate football heroine? The current England lionesses vice-captain is a three-time Women's Champions League champion with superclub Lyon. She is a two-time French League winner and also earned third place for England at the Women's World Cup in 2015. Playing in her best position as a roving right-back, Bronze loves to get forward on the pitch and has scored some sensational volleys in huge matches for club and country! Her story is one of defying the odds: she overcame career-threatening knee injuries and was told she would never again play for England to become one of the finest and most-decorated English players in women's football. An inspiration to young girls and boys alike. Available to buy: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bronze-Rules-Simon-Mugford/dp/178312637X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1F4PVQZ9EFG0A&keywords=bronze+rules&qid=1685728318&s=books&sprefix=bronze+rule%2Cstripbooks%2C126&sr=1-1

FA Women's National League fourth-tier club Moneyfields FC announces equal pay model Moneyfields FC announce equal pay for men's and women's team Saturday, 18 May 2024 Stuart Barker FA Women's National League fourth-tier club Moneyfields FC announces equal pay model Tom Phillips Following a successful season where our men’s team won the Velocity Wessex Premier Division, our women’s team was victorious in the PDFA Women’s Senior Cup and our season also included a record-breaking run into the Fourth Round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. Everyone involved at Moneyfields Football Club is excited to share that for the 2024/25 season, we are taking huge steps towards equality with us now having finance to take the players semi-professional. The club has been building to this day by increasing the women’s budget each season, with the club’s board being inspired by the Lionesses’ European Championships victory in 2022. This is another step towards pay parity between the men’s and women's teams. First Team Manager, Karl Watson, said, “I’m extremely proud that Moneyfields Football Club is committed to moving towards a Parity & Equality model. “Our players can now look forward to becoming semi-professional paid players. The players have the same jobs and financial and domestic burdens, so it is only right that we strive to move towards Parity & Equality. “Don’t get me wrong it’s not a full-time salary by any stretch but it is a huge step in the right direction. Of all the things that we’ve achieved at this club I think this is the one I’m most proud of.” Charley Wilson-Wilton. Photo: Tom Phillips Captain, Charley Wilson-Wilton added, “I have been in the game for a long time now and I still remember having to pay considerable sums just to be able to play, much like many players are still doing today. “At that point in my career, I’ll be honest, I didn’t see a time when I would be paid to do what I love. We have seen the likes of Lewes set the tone for equality and I’m proud that my club recognises the value of its women’s team and is moving towards a parity and equality model. “With this increased investment there will also be added pressure but as the Billie Jean King quote goes, pressure is a privilege.” Moneyfields Women begin their 2024/25 season at the end of August and expect to have moved into their newly refurbished home, the John Jenkins stadium in time for the start of pre-season. Check out the progress here . By ensuring equal pay, Moneyfields can truly be a club for all within the community, regardless of gender, and continue to grow and thrive.

Chelsea reign supreme in 7-0 thrashing Back Match Report Crystal Palace suffer crushing defeat at Selhurst Park Chelsea reign supreme in 7-0 thrashing Ryan Asman 28 September 2024 Paul Donegan Chelsea thrashed Crystal Palace 7-0 on Friday evening to make it two wins out of two in the Women’s Super League this season. Guro Reiten scored twice whilst Aggie Beever-Jones, Lucy Bronze, Lauren James, Nathalie Bjorn and Catarina Macario also found the net for the Blues. 5,047 supporters were at Selhurst Park to watch the Eagles first home game in the WSL. James’ early Chelsea effort was deflected into goalkeepers hands, whilst at the other end, Katie Stengle got onto Fliss Gibbons great long ball forward and shot across goal and wide. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd played the ball back to Beever-Jones but it was scrambled behind for a corner. In the 7th minute, James cut in from the right and sent a shot over as the visitors had more opportunities. Chelsea had the ball in the net in 11th minute but referee Emily Heaslip blew her whistle as the ball was on its way in for a potential head injury to Katrine Veje. The Blues were having to get through 11 Palace players behind the ball when they attacked, and it took to the 19th minute for them to have a shot at goal when Shae Yanez saved Rytting Kaneryd’s shot. After a Chelsea defensive mistake, Indiah-Paige Riley had the hosts first effort on target two minutes later which Hannah Hampton kept out. James immediately had another chance for the away side but fired this one wide. Erin Cuthbert had their next effort at goal in the 28th minute but Yanez claimed the shot easily. On occasions when Palace attacked, the final pass or decision was letting them down. Bronze fired over from 25-yards as the Blues struggled to break down the hosts defence. Chelsa did take the lead in the 38th minute when after the home side lost the ball, they counter-attacked quickly and Rytting Kaneryd’s cross found Beever-Jones who finished from 12 yards. Palace had a chance to equalise in the 42nd minute but Annabel Blanchard’s sidefooted effort went just wide. This turned out to be the final opportunity of the first half. Photo: Ryan Asman Bronze made it 2-0 to Chelsea three minutes into the second half when a cross was headed out to her and first time she riffled into the top corner of the net from just inside the area to score her first goal for the Blues. In the 58th minute, James tapped in near enough on the goalline to score the visitors third finishing a low cross from second half substitute Mayra Ramirez. Blanchard had the Eagles first chance of the second half in 61st minute but her low effort trickled through into Hampton’s hands. Ashley Lawrence got forward on the left-hand side but shot over as the away side looked to extend their lead further. Stengel saw another chance go just the wrong side of the post for Palace in the 68th minute. Stengel couldn’t get on the end of Josie Green’s dangerous shortly after but the assistants flag was up for offside anyway. Chelsea scored a fourth in the 74th minute when Reiten’s low shot found the net after some nice build up involving Beever-Jones, Eve Perisset, Macario and Wieke Kaptein. Four minutes later and it was 5-0 when Bjorn found space at the far post and got on the end of Macario’s corner. Reiten added a sixth for Chelsea and scored her second of the night in the final minute of the 90 with the Norwegian international finishing with a low shot. There was still time for the Blues to score a seventh when Yanez kept out Ramirez’s initial effort but Macario put the rebound into the net to wrap up the dominant win. Chelsea have made a good start to the season under new manager Sonia Bompastor having won both their games, scoring eight goals and yet to concede. Crystal Palace haven’t scored yet in either of their defeats and let in 11 goals but they did have chances in this match against the defending champions and Laura Kaminski’s side will have to take those in other games, and tighten up in defence, if they are going to survive in the WSL. Line ups Crystal Palace (5-4-1): Y anez, Gibbons, Veje, Everett (c), Woodham, Green (Larkin 79’), Geji, Cato, Blanchard (Weerden 90’+1), Riley (Sharpe 53’), Stengel (Pritchard 90’+1) Unused substitutes: Maj-Majasaari, Arthur, Atkinson Booked – Blanchard Chelsea (4-1-4-1): Hampton, Lawrence (Baltimore 64’), Bjorn, Bright (c), Bronze (Perisset 64’), Nusken (Macario 71’), James, Reiten, Cuthbert (Kaptein 54’), Rytting Kaneryd (Ramirez 54’), Beever-Jones Unused substitutes: Musovic, Hamano, Mpome, Buchanan Goals – Beever-Jones 38’, Bronze 48’, James 58’, Reiten 74’, 90’, Bjorn 78’, Macario 90’+5 Booked – James Referee – Emily Heaslip Attendance – 5,047

Stevenage leave it until the dying minutes to net two goals in a 2-1 victory over a disappointed Wroxham side Back Match Report Wroxham v Stevenage Stevenage leave it until the dying minutes to net two goals in a 2-1 victory over a disappointed Wroxham side Simon Gooderham 4 May 2023 By Barry Rust An entertaining game at Trafford park saw Stevenage FCW once again leave it late to overcome the hosts Wroxham on Sunday in the ERWFL Premier Division. The five times Hertfordshire County Cup winners saw a plethora of chances come and go but after dropping behind to an outstanding goal by Holly Walker, it took an inspired intervention from Jodie Bellinger and Tilly Fidler to help rescue the points, much to the despair of the home side. Megan Gowing would have been forgiven for thinking she was playing against more than eleven players with the number of opportunities created by Stevenage in the first half, but her positioning was such that she rarely seemed troubled. Efforts flew in from last week’s heroes Amy Gooderham and Vicky Neal, but Gowing was equal to the first and not needed for the second. Kelsey Millen was having a fruitful time down the Boro’ right, as she attempted to add to her assist tally for the season. Becky Shephard was first to try her luck with Gowing again in the right place to catch the ball with ease. Nicole Farmer saw a good free kick sail just over the bar before Lucy Webster sent a good ball in to Gooderham who was foiled by Gowing once again. Shephard, Millen and Rosy Wodhams all saw efforts come and go before the end of the half, all of which either missed the target, was stopped by Gowing or saw solid defending from the home side. It was a half that was dominated by the visitors, but yet the home side had never really looked like conceding. The second half saw four changes for Boro’. Within three minutes the first real clear cut opportunity arrived as Emily Schofield saw her cross from the right travel tantalisingly in front of Erin Price. A touch would have surely seen a goal, but the ball was narrowly missed and the home side survived the scare. Photo: Simon Gooderham The Wroxham left still seemed to be the source of Boro’s joy, with Ellie Overton effectively shutting down the opposite flank. Top scorer Amy Makewell saw her first chance come down this side as the ball from Mia O’Brien bounced once and Makewell took a snap shot that flew wide of the post. A scramble in the box was the next obstacle for Wroxham to survive, which they did well before setting up a counter attack that required some unbelievable tracking back from Neal to defend. Walker had the home side’s best opportunity, but the ball was not on target. It was a warning sign that Wroxham could catch Boro’ out with a break, one that would repeat itself twenty minutes later. Makewell saw her best effort, a first time volley in the area, saved by Gowing and a free kick that was awarded to Stevenage for holding the ball for too long was sent straight into the wall. Grace Brooks nearly scored from another free kick and Schofield saw her effort after cutting inside from the left, turned around the post by Gowing. With Boro’ searching for the opening goal, Wroxham started to push themselves. A short purple patch saw Walker turn her defender, shift the ball to her left and create an opening for an absolute rocket into the top corner that no goalkeeper in the world would have stopped. Wroxham were ahead, against the run of play. If the County Cup had taught the viewing public anything, it was that Stevenage’ do not give in. And so the story continued. With two minutes remaining Boro’ earned a free kick right of centre inside the Wroxham half. Webster delivered an inch perfect ball for Bellinger to rise highest and head the ball low into the bottom corner for the equaliser. Photo: Simon Gooderham Stevenage were not content and searched for more, with the bit between their teeth. Wroxham too sensed a chance to snatch victory and their ball to set the attacker free was adjudged offside, a decision that although seemingly controversial, was proven to be spot on upon viewing the replay. This free kick, just inside the Boro’ half, was taken by Webster. Her ball into the box bounced once before Bellinger pulled the trigger only to see the ball cannon off the crossbar. Despair turned to elation as the rebound fell at an awkward height for Fidler to send the ball into the net and break Wroxham hearts. It may have felt cruel to the players who had worked so hard, but the result itself was hard to argue against as manager Dave Perry said afterwards “We spent ninety minutes peppering the goal and we didn’t get the breakthrough. Wroxham played their part and hung in there but we have a very good squad and they kept plugging away. It’s a long coach journey if you lose!” It may still have been long with the win, but it was certainly a happier one. Wroxham XI: Gowing, Bradford, Densley, Kett, Hodgson, Overton, Russell (c), Robson, Bullard, Catchpole, O’Neill Subs: Olive, Fullbrook, Walker Goal: Walker Bookings: Kett, O’Neill Stevenage XI: O’Brien, Neal, Webster (c), Farmer, Nebbitt, Bodily, Price, Wodhams, Shephard, Millen, Gooderham Subs: Fidler, Makewell, Bellinger, Brooks, Schofield Goals: Bellinger, Fidler

All the latest news from the Women's Super League Back WSL Latest News All the latest news from the Women's Super League LCFC Women 16 July 2024 By Paul Donegan Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed that Dario Vidosic will become their new head coach having signed a contract until 2027. Vidosic joins Albion from A-League side Melbourne City who he led to the league title last season. His playing career saw him turn out for clubs in Australia, Germany, New Zealand, China, India and Switzerland as well as winning 23 caps for Australia. Joining the Seagulls with him as assistant manager is Chris Roberts, formally of Everton. Vidosic will come to the UK once his work permit is processed. Leicester City have announced the appointment of Amandine Miquel as their new first team manager. Miquel has signed a three-year contract after seven years with French Premiere Ligue side Stade de Reims. The 40-year-old guided Reims to a fourth-place finish in the league last season. On joining the Foxes, Miquel said, “I am very excited for this new project. Right now, the WSL is one of the best leagues in the world and it’s the place to be. I am very pleased that I have the opportunity to be here”. Japanese defender Risa Shimizu has joined Manchester City where she has signed a three-year contract. The 28-year-old had spent the last two seasons with West Ham United where she made 44 appearances and scored one goal and has previously won trophies with Tokyo Verdy Beleza. She has won 78 caps for Japan and featured at the Olympics and World Cups. After joining the Cityzens, the full-back commented, “first of all, it will be a challenge, but one I’m ready for. City play football with a high possession style, which I like. I think I’m technically good and calm with the ball in possession, so I think I’ll play well in City’s style”. Manchester United have announced the permanent signing of France international Melvine Malard on a contract until the end of the 2026/27 season. The forward spent last season on loan at United from Lyon and she made 29 appearances and scored seven goals. Malard remarked, “I am very happy to make my stay here at Manchester United permanent, after this great club and this great city became my home last season. Here I felt loved. Thank you to the fans for welcoming me so well, I will do what it takes to give you even more than last season and I look forward to more winning seasons together.” Katie Robinson has signed for Aston Villa on a two-year deal following the expiry of her contract with Brighton & Hove Albion. The 21-year-old made 68 appearances and scored 10 goals for the Seagulls after making her senior debut in 2020. She spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Championship side Charlton Athletic. The forward has won five senior England caps and was part of the squad at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Villans Manager Robert de Pawu believes Robinson is “a player who can be a difference-maker in games”. Aston Villa have signed Spanish international Paula Tomas from Levante for an undisclosed fee. The left-back has joined on a two-year deal, with the option for a further year. The 22-year-old has won two senior caps. The Villans manager Robert de Pauw said, “Paula is a young and versatile player that can play as a full-back on both sides. She is able to defend well and also go up the flanks in attack. I think she will bring intelligence and determination to the team. I’m happy the club were able to bring her here.” Dutch defender Marit Auee has signed for Brighton & Hove Albion, joining them from FC Twente. The 22-year-old won an Eredivisie title, the Dutch FA Cup, two super Cups and two Eredivisie League Cups during her two seasons with Twente. Auee has represented the Netherlands at various youth levels. It has been confirmed that Scotland international Rachel McLauchlan has joined Brighton & Hove Albion. The defender had spent the last three seasons with SWPL side Rangers and has also played for Inverness Caledonian Thistle, Aberdeen, Hibernian, Yeovil Town and Glasgow City. McLauchlan has won numerous honours during her career including two Scottish titles and five Scottish FA Cups. The 27-year-old has made 23 appearances for her country since making her international debut in 2016. West Ham United have announced the signing of Chile international Camila Saez on a two-year contract. The defender joins the Hammers after leaving Madrid CFF at the end of the 2023/24 campaign. She won titles in her native Chile before moving to play in Spain in 2017. 29-year-old Saez has been capped 71 times by her county and was in squads for the 2019 World Cup and Tokyo Olympics. On joining, Saez said, “I’m really excited to be here and I hope to repay the trust the club have shown to bring me to east London.” Bex Rayner has signed for Brighton & Hove Albion after leaving Championship side Sheffield United. The midfielder had two spells with the Blades and made over 100 appearances for them. The 24-year-old came through Leeds United’s academy before joining Doncaster Rovers Belles where she won the WSL 2 title in 2018. 19-year-old goalkeeper Hannah Poulter has joined Brighton & Hove Albion, signing her first professional contract. Poulter came through Reading’s academy, featuring on the bench for the Royals senior team aged just 16, and spent the last year in the United States playing for the University of Southern California. She has represented England at youth levels and is in the under-19 squad for the upcoming Euros in Lithuania. Crystal Palace have announced that Elise Hughes has signed a new two-year contract with an option of a further year. The Wales international joined the Eagles in 2022 and has made 52 appearances and scored 30 goals in all competitions for them. Hughes won the Championship Golden Boot last season when she found the net 16 times in the league as Palace won the title. The 23-year-old ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in their penultimate game of the season and has already undergone surgery and started her rehabilitation. Fliss Gibbons has signed a new one-year contract with Crystal Palace ahead of their first season in the WSL. The full back joined them in 2022 from Brighton & Hove Albion and has made 40 appearances in all competitions for the Eagles. Gibbons recorded a league-leading eight assists as Palace won the Championship last season. Chelsea have announced that 18-year-old academy defender Greta Humphries has signed her first professional contract with the club until the summer of 2025, with the option to extend for a further year. After signing, Humphries said, “It’s a very proud and exciting moment for me and my family. It’s my dream come true to sign a professional contract at this club. It’s the club my family and I have supported our entire lives. I’m so grateful to be given an opportunity here and I can’t wait to get started.” West Ham United’s Princess Ademiluyi and Soraya Walsh have both signed their first professional contracts with the club. News