Carla Ward insists her side are ready for their tough fixture against West Ham this afternoon Back "We will be 100% ready" says Aston Villa boss Carla Ward insists her side are ready for their tough fixture against West Ham this afternoon Getty 11 March 2023 By Paul Donegan Carla Ward spoke to the media on Friday morning ahead of Aston Villa’s trip to West Ham United in the Women’s Super League on Sunday. Ward started by confirming that everyone is fit and available for the match apart from the long-term injured. With snow in some parts of the country (including Birmingham), Ward was asked about how difficult it has been to prepare for the match. Her response was “you have to find another way” and “they have had some really good meetings with the players this morning”. Ward added that at this point in the season “fitness and the way in which we set up shouldn’t be an issue, no excuses, we will be 100% ready.” Unbeaten in the WSL in 2023, Ward was asked about confidence at the club. Ward replied by saying it is about “keeping feet on the ground, making sure we continue to move forward, raise standards and improve all the time”. She added the players are playing tremendously well and a joy to work with and watch. “They don’t discuss a top four finish and that is a stretch” Ward continued. She also mentioned that they take one game at a time and that a top six finish “would look like success”. “It is about telling the players we want more and important we keep going” were the Villa managers final thoughts on this. Asked about how the team learn from experiences and build going forward, Ward commented that they are progressing naturally as a group of players and as a club. “We are in a good place” Ward added. Villa played West Ham two weeks in the FA Cup and won on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Ward noted that the games between them this season have been “competitive and lively”. She continued by saying that if Villa turn up and do things properly then we have every chance of winning the game. Ward was asked about if they have plans to defend against Dagný Brynjarsdóttir who has been on good form for West Ham this season. She praised Brynjarsdóttir saying she is a great player and will make any team in this division better, but you need plans to defend against them as a team. In the league fixture at the Poundland Bescot Stadium between the two sides earlier in the season, West Ham’s Hawa Cissoko and two of their coaching staff were sent off late on. Ward was asked about if they would focus on themselves and controlling passion in the return fixture. Her response was that we will concentrate on what we are doing and not buy into some of the antics in some of the games. Ward said consistency in the league is “huge” and the win last week against Everton “was probably the most pleasing of the season”. The Villa manager was happy with how they controlled that game without the ball, how disciplined they were, and how they adapted to changes throughout the match. Aston Villa still have to play Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal, and Ward was asked if they could still have a say in who wins the title as matches against the Villans aren’t seen as a guaranteed win anymore. “I like to think we can still play a part, and we will be doing everything we can to win every match possible” replied the Villa manager. Ward said “it is fantastic” that the final games of the WSL season has been brought forward a day (now Saturday 27th May, 3pm (BST) kick-offs) to avoid a clash with the last day of the Premier League, and “ it is a good opportunity for women’s football to have its own day” Ward concluded. West Ham United face Aston Villa at the Chigwell Construction Stadium on Sunday at 3pm (GMT) and it is live on the FA Player. News

The top tier of women's football will continue to be televised on the BBC and Sky channels for the upcoming season Back BBC Sport and Sky Sports announce Barclays Super League extension for 2024/25 season The top tier of women's football will continue to be televised on the BBC and Sky channels for the upcoming season Ryan Asman 11 April 2024 By Charlotte Stacey Today it has been annouced that the Barclays Women’s Super League broadcast rights partnership with Sky Sports and BBC Sport will continue into the 2024/25 season. Following on from a three-year agreement that commenced at the beginning of the 2021/22 campaign, both broadcasters have committed to another season of televising games from the top tier of women’s professional football in England. Sky will show up to 44 matches from the Barclays Women’s Super League on Sky Showcase (available in all Sky homes), across various Sky Sports channels and on streaming service NOW, BBC Sport will have the option to show up to 22 games across BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Red Button and BBC iPlayer. This exciting announcement comes off the back of another record-breaking campaign for the WSL, with peak and average audience numbers having been regularly surpassed throughout the season. This has been represented off the field too with match day attendances being the highest they have ever been across the league. Speaking regarding the extension, Nikki Doucet – CEO for the Barclays Women’s Super League and Barclays Women’s Championship – said: “We are very pleased t hat Sky Sports and BBC Sport are continuing their broadcast rights partnership with us for a further season. “The past three years have been incredibly exciting for the women’s game – each broadcaster’s coverage of the Barclays Women’s Super League has helped to take the game to another level and open it up to new audiences, and we’re looking forward to seeing that continue and momentum build as we move into a standalone entity.” Sky Sports Managing Director, Jonathan Licht, added: “It’s a hugely exciting time for women’s football in this country. “Extending our partnership with the Barclays Women’s Super League with more matches than any other broadcaster is fantastic news for Sky Sports customers. “Audiences have increased hugely over recent years and we’re proud of our contribution to the growth of the game and women’s sport more broadly, showing 70% of all live action last year on our channels.” Philip Bernie, Interim Director of BBC Sport, said: “Women's football has reached unprecedented heights, with the Lionesses' huge international successes at the Women's Euros and World Cup, and a terrific contest for this season’s WSL title. “We are pleased that BBC Sport will continue to showcase the great excitement of our domestic league by extending our partnerships with the Women’s Super League.” News

The pair have signed for the Seagulls from Swedish top-flight club BC Häcken until the end of the 2022-23 season, subject to international clearance. Back Brighton & Hove Albion confirm the signings of Swedish duo Emma Kullberg and Julia Zigiotti Olme The pair have signed for the Seagulls from Swedish top-flight club BC Häcken until the end of the 2022-23 season, subject to international clearance. Paul Hazlewood/ BHAFC 31 December 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Defender Kullberg, 30, has played for a total of nine Swedish clubs since the inception of her professional career in 2009. She joined BC Häcken earlier this year after a season with Gothenburg in the top division of their domestic league. She has won both the Swedish League and Cup during her career. Kullberg won her first cap for Sweden in 2019 and has played nine times for her country. She was part of the squad that reached the final of the Olympic Games last summer. Midfielder Zigiotti Olme, 24, spent three seasons with BC Häcken after joining them from fellow Swedish club Hammarby in 2018. Zigiotti Olme made her senior international debut in 2016 after representing her country at under-17 and under-19 level. Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Hope Powell said, “We’re delighted to welcome Julia and Emma to the club.” “They are both talented, athletic and versatile players with lots of experience at domestic and international level. I think they are going to be a really big asset to our squad and just as importantly they are lovely people, who I think will fit in really well in our group of players.” “They are really keen to play in England, they are ready for the challenge of competing in one of the strongest domestic leagues in the world. We look forward to working with them and seeing what they can bring to the team.” News

Photo Diary: Arsenal v Chelsea Conti Cup Final Photographer Edward Payne Arsenal earned their first silverware in four years with a 3-1 victory over London rivals Chelsea. Chelsea's Sam Kerr, assisted by the deadly Guro Reiten, put the Blues ahead within 90 seconds of the first whistle, but it wasn't long before the Gunners came...well, gunning. Stina Blackstenuis, captain Kim Little and an own goal from Niamh Charles put Arsenal firmly in the driving seat. Our photographer Edward Payne was on hand to capture all the action from Selhurst Park. Cue the pyro and confetti!

Emma Harries and Brooke Hendrix look ahead to Reading's 2022/23 WSL Season. Back “It’s a really exciting time for us as a team” say Reading stars Emma Harries and Brooke Hendrix Emma Harries and Brooke Hendrix look ahead to Reading's 2022/23 WSL Season. Girls on the Ball 25 August 2022 By Finley Chung Following the tremendous success of the Lionesses at European Championships this summer, the return of the WSL is as eagerly anticipated as it has ever been. It’s an exciting time for all clubs and fans alike, with Reading defender Brooke Hendrix and striker, Emma Harries, both very excited for the new campaign. American defender, Hendrix returns to England and the WSL after leaving West Ham in 2019. "It’s only been a couple years, but so much has changed and I think the Euro’s has boosted it even more" said Hendrix who clocked up 21 appearances in her previous singular season on English shores. The defender has also played in her native America and most recently in Australia, with Hendrix feeling that her experience was key to the move. “[Kelly Chambers] definitely brought me in for my experience, Having the different things I’ve learnt from each club has been hard but amazing, and I think it will be incredibly useful, especially with a young team”. Along with Hendrix, Reading have added Diane Caldwell, Charlie Wellings, Lauren Wade, Jacqueline Burns and Becky Jane to their ranks for the forthcoming campaign. Hendrix admitted she’s suffered with an injury setback but assured, " I'm sure I’ll settle in fine” , once her rehabilitation finishes. Touching on her expectations for the upcoming campaign, Hendrix added, “I want to have the biggest impact I can on the team, fill in wherever I am needed”. The Royals finished last season in 8th place in the WSL, with the defender targeting “a top half finish and progressively get better and better, as the season goes on”. Young forward, Emma Harries is well on the comeback trail for the Berkshire outfit after rupturing her PCL in April of this year, missing the last few games of last season. “Being only 20 and suffering an injury that big off the back of the season I had last year was quite heartbreaking really” , said Harries who made 24 appearances, scoring three times before injury cut her season short. "For me, now it’s about taking it game by game, like the team after the injury.” The Royals face newly promoted Liverpool in their WSL season opener at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on 11th September in what already is set to be a landmark day for the club. The sales of season tickets for 2022/23 have eclipsed any previous total with over 500 sold and the attendance for the opener is set to be a new record for the team. "It doesn’t change our preparation at all, but it makes us all so much more excited, we’re in a really good place as a team and we can’t wait to get started.", Harries added. News

London City Lionesses v Blackburn Rovers Photographer Adam Mitten Blackburn Rovers earn a huge three points to take them to the middle of the table thanks to Lucy Shepherd's first half effort. Both London City Lionesses and Blackburn missed a penalty each

Recap all the in's and out's of the twelve Women's Championship teams Women’s Championship 2023-24 Season Saturday, 2 September 2023 By Paul Donegan Recap all the in's and out's of the twelve Women's Championship teams Crystal Palace Women The 2023/24 Women’s Championship season looks set to be close and unpredictable! On the first weekend alone, Blackburn Rovers beat one of the favourites Birmingham City, Southampton were the only side to score more than one goal as they won 4-1 at Lewes, whilst the other four matches ended in draws with Sheffield United and Crystal Palace scoring late equalisers. The fight to be champions with promotion spot to the WSL and to avoid the two relegation places looks like it could be thrilling. Reading and Watford join the league for this season replacing Bristol City and Coventry United (now Rugby Borough). Four of the clubs have new managers for this season, with perhaps the most interesting appointment being that of former Italian international and Italy, Canada, Lazio and AC Milan manager Carolina Morace at London City Lionesses. There have been a lot of player movements in the Championship and the full list for each side can be seen below in the club information. London City Lionesses have seen the biggest turnover with 16 players leaving and 13 joining. After relegation from the WSL, Reading announced they will be operating under a part-time model for this season. Sheffield United announced during the summer they will begin the transition towards operating a full-time playing model, whilst Sunderland have adop ted a hybrid playing model for the 2023/24 season. Here is information about all 12 sides in the league including where they play, links for tickets, social media accounts, and all the comings and goings during the summer (correct as of Saturday 2nd September 2023). Birmingham City Ground – St Andrew’s Stadium B9 4RL Tickets – Event Tickets List - Online ticket office ( eticketing.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @BCFCWomen Instagram - bcfcwomen Manager – Darren Carter Last season – 2nd Women’s Championship Players joined – Ellie Mason (Lewes), Charlie Devlin (Leicester City), Charlotte Clarke (Liverpool), Katie Dungate (Chelsea), Remi Allen (Aston Villa), Neve Herron (Sunderland), Lily Agg (London City Lionesses), Jade Moore (Manchester United) Players left – Charlie Estcourt (Reading), Eleanor Ryan-Doyle (Durham), Lily Simkin, Mollie Green (Nottingham Forest), Harriet Scott (retired), Lucy Jones (West Bromwich Albion – dual registration) Blackburn Rovers Ground – Lancashire FA County Ground PR25 2LF (Clubs main ground - Ewood Park BB2 4JF) Tickets – Event Tickets List - eTickets ( eticketing.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @RoversWFC Instagram - roverswfc Manager – Simon Parker Last season – 10th Women’s Championship Players joined – Chloe Williams (Manchester United), Niamh Murphy (Manchester United), Tyler Toland (Levante), Georgia Walters (Sheffield United), Lucy Shepherd (London City Lionesses), Hannah Silcock (Liverpool – loan) Players left – Camilla Kur (retired), Ellie Leek (Stoke City), Saffron Jordan (Stoke City), Natasha Fenton (Sunderland), Chloe Dixon (Nottingham Forest), Kayleigh McDonald (Stoke City) Charlton Athletic Ground – The Oakwood DA1 4EU (Clubs main ground – The Valley SE7 8BL) Tickets – Buy Tickets: Charlton Athletic Ticketing ( cafc.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @CAFCWomen Instagram - cafcwomen Manager – Karen Hills Last season – 4th Women’s Championship Players joined – Kate Longhurst (West Ham United), Sian Rogers (Aston Villa), Kayleigh Green (Brighton & Hove Albion), Elisha N’Dow (Aston Villa), Rebecca McKenna (Lewes), Carla Humphrey (Liverpool), Karin Muya (London City Lionesses), Freya Godfrey (Arsenal – loan) Players left – Lauren Bruton (retired), Alex Hennessy (Billericay Town), Corinne Henson (Watford), Emma Folis, Emily Simpkins (retired), Poppy Soper (Ipswich Town – loan), Heidi Logan (Stoke City – loan) Crystal Palace Ground – VBS Community Stadium SM1 2EY (Clubs main ground – Selhurst Park SE25 6PU) Tickets – Event Tickets List - eTickets ( eticketing.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @cpfc_w Instagram – cpfc_w Manager – Laura Kaminski Last season – 5th Women’s Championship Players joined – Lia Cataldo (Bristol City), Hayley Nolan (London City Lionesses), Shanade Hopcroft (London City Lionesses), Keira Berry (Manchester United – loan), Araya Dennis (Arsenal) Players left – Rianna Dean (Southampton), Hollie Olding (Lewes), Emily Wilson-White, Lizzie Waldie (Hearts), Coral-Jade Haines (Watford) Durham Ground – Maiden Castle DH1 3SE Tickets – Durham Women FC ( ticketco.events ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @DurhamWFC Instagram - durhamwfc Manager – Lee Sanders Last season – 7th Women’s Championship Players joined – Eleanor Ryan-Doyle (Birmingham City), Amy Andrews (Western Illinois University), Abby Holmes (Sunderland) Players left – Maria Farrugia (Lewes), Rio Hardy (Rangers), Bridget Galloway (Newcastle United), Hannah Greenwood (Newcastle United) Lewes Ground – The Dripping Pan BN7 2XA Tickets – Buy tickets for Lewes Football Club ( tickettailor.com ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @LewesFCWomen Instagram - lewesfcwomen Manager – Scott Booth Last season – 9th Women’s Championship Players joined – Caragh Hamilton (Glentoran), Anna Grey (Ipswich Town), Maria Farrugia (Durham), Sarah Brasero-Carreira (Ipswich Town), Hollie Olding (Crystal Palace), Grace Riglar (Sheffield United), Grace Garrad (Stabaek), Kate Oakley (Liverpool), Shauna Vassell (London Bees), Reanna Blades (Chelsea – loan) Players left – Izzy Dalton (Perth Glory), Ellie Mason (Birmingham City), Paula Howells (Saltdean United), Rebecca McKenna (Charlton Athletic), Amber-Keegan Stobbs (Newcastle United), Emily Kraft (Southampton), Nat Johnson (Nottingham Forest) London City Lionesses Ground – Princes Park DA1 1RT Tickets – Single Match & Season Tickets | London City Lionesses Social Media – X (Twitter) - @LC_Lionesses Instagram - londoncitylionesses Manager – Carolina Morace Last season – 3rd Women’s Championship Players joined – Connie Scofield (Leicester City), Sophie Hillyerd (West Ham United), Tinaya Alexander (Reading), Georgia Brougham, Paige Satchell (Wellington Phoenix), Sonia O’Neill (Turbine Potsdam), Grace Moloney (Reading), Niamh Farrelly (Parma Calcio), Emma Mukandi (Reading), Danielle Carter (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ruesha Littlejohn (Aston Villa), Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah (Aston Villa), Maddi Wilde (Bristol City – loan) Players left – Shae Yanez (San Diego Wave), Amy Rodgers (Bristol City), Lily Agg (Birmingham City), Harley Bennett (Watford), Charlotte Fleming (Watford), Carly Girasoli (Hearts), Katie Kitching (Sunderland), Anna Pedersen, Lucy Shepherd (Blackburn Rovers), Hayley Nolan (Crystal Palace), Shanade Hopcroft (Crystal Palace), Sarah Ewens (Rangers), Jamie-Lee Napier (Bristol City), Atlanta Primus (Southampton), Kyra Carusa (San Diego Wave), Karin Muya (Charlton Athletic) Reading Ground – Select Car Leasing Stadium RG2 0FL Tickets – Buy Tickets: Reading FC Ticketing Social Media – X (Twitter) - @ReadingFCWomen Instagram - readingwomenfc Manager – Liam Gilbert Last season – 12th Women’s Super League Players joined – Charlie Estcourt (Birmingham City), Ava Kuyken (Hibernian), Rose Kite (Oxford United), Rachel Dugdale (Rugby Borough), Georgia Wilson (Aab Kvinder), Emily Orman (Chelsea – loan), Josie Longhurst (Lewes) Players left – Emma Mukandi (London City Lionesses), Faye Bryson, Chloe Peplow (Southampton), Grace Moloney (London City Lionesses), Becky Jane, Amalie Eikeland (SK Brann), Emma Harries (West Ham United), Gemma Evans (Manchester United), Justine Vanhaevermaet (Everton), Natasha Dowie, Deanne Rose, Tinaya Alexander (London City Lionesses), Hannah Poulter (Southern California University), Rachel Rowe (Rangers) Sheffield United Ground – Bramall Lane S2 4SU Tickets – Buy Tickets: Sheffield United Ticketing ( sufc.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @sufc_women Instagram – sufc_women Manager – Jonathan Morgan Last season – 8th Women’s Championship Players joined – Sophie Barker (Leicester City), Jess Sigsworth (Leicester City), Isobel Goodwin (Rugby Borough), Ashley Hodson (Liverpool), Jodie Hutton (Bristol City), Ella Kinzett (Manchester United), Fran Stenson (Arsenal), Tara Bourne (Manchester United), Olivia Page (Eastern Suburbs AFC), Alanta Brown (Burnley), Juliet Adebowale-Arimoro (London Bees), Ellie May (Burnley) Players left – Ellie Wilson (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Nina Wilson (Hibernian), Georgia Walters (Blackburn Rovers), Grace Riglar (Lewes), Naomi Hartley, Mia Enderby (Liverpool), Courtney Sweetman-Kirk, Alethea Paul (Burnley), Rhema Lord-Mears (Burnley) Southampton Ground – St Mary’s Stadium SO14 5FP Tickets – Men | Fixture Listing | Southampton FC Official Site Social Media – X (Twitter) - @SaintsFCWomen (matchday)/@SouthamptonFC Instagram - saintsfcwomen Manager – Marieanne Spacey-Cale Last season – 6th Women’s Championship Players joined – Chloe Peplow (Reading), Rianna Dean (Crystal Palace), Emily Kraft (Lewes), Molly Pike (Leicester City), Jemma Purfield (Leicester City), Isabel Milne (Chelsea), Atlanta Primus (London City Lionesses), Emma Thompson (Chelsea) Players left – Georgie Freeland (Portsmouth), Phoebe Williams (Oxford United), Ella Pusey, Beth Lumsden (Portsmouth), Ella Hunkin Sunderland Ground – Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground DH5 9NA (Clubs main ground – Stadium of Light SR5 1SU) Tickets – Event Tickets List - eTickets ( eticketing.co.uk ) Social Media – X (Twitter) - @SAFCWomen Instagram - safcwomen Manager – Mel Reay Last season – 11th Women’s Championship Players joined – Mary McAteer (Rugby Borough), Katie Kitching (London City Lionesses), Natasha Fenton (Blackburn Rovers), Jenna Dear (Valerenga), Amy Goddard (Oxford United), Ellen Jones (Leicester City) Players left – Abbey Joice (retired), Abby Towers (Middlesbrough), Danielle Brown, Allison Cowling, Brenna McPartlan (Burnley), Emma Kelly (Newcastle United), Neve Herron (Birmingham City), Nicki Gears, Tyler Dodds (Newcastle United), Abby Holmes (Durham) Watford Ground – Grosvenor Vale HA4 6JQ (Clubs main ground – Vicarage Road Stadium WD18 0ER) Tickets – Buy Tickets: Watford FC Ticketing Social Media – X (Twitter) - @WatfordFCWomen Instagram - watfordfcwomen Manager – Damon Lathrope Last season – 1st Women’s National League Players joined – Ellie Head (Arsenal), Harley Bennett (London City Lionesses), Coral-Jade Haines (Crystal Palace), Abbie Lafayette (Ipswich Town), Lucia Leon (Real Betis), Corinne Henson (Charlton Athletic), Carly Johns (Oxford United), Charlotte Fleming (London City Lionesses), Olivia Clark (Bristol City – loan), Michelle Agyemang (Arsenal – dual registration), Laila Harbert (Arsenal – dual registration), Katie Reid (Arsenal – dual registration) Players left – Helen Ward (retired), Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Emily Wallace, Faye Brough (Elfen), Georgie Ferguson (Stoke City), Nicola Gibson (AFC Wimbledon)

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Tottenham Hotspur Photographer Adam Mitten Elisabeth Terland put hosts Brighton in front early before Martha Thomas earned Spurs' equaliser late in the first half. The visitors ended up adding another two to their tally thanks to efforts from Grace Clinton and Ria Percival, picking up all three points on the road. Yet despite the underwhelming result for the hosts, the Amex was rocking.

A look back at the outstanding year had by sisters Kristie and Sam Mewis. 2020: The Year of Mewis Wednesday, 30 December 2020 By Charlotte Stacey A look back at the outstanding year had by sisters Kristie and Sam Mewis. Brad Smith Describing the year 2020 could quite accurately serve as a dictionary definition of the word ‘impossible’. Sports events, entire seasons and prestigious international competitions were all cruelly whipped away from us by an aggressively obnoxious predator. But amongst the ever-present dread emerged positives to grab on to, rising to the top of the void with little shards of light. Indeed, women’s football returned, albeit slightly differently to what we are used to. Back in June, the National Women’s Soccer League dosed us with a much-needed tonic, hosting a month-long knock-out tournament that was streamed worldwide. That was it, all eyes on the Challenge Cup. The tournament brought an incentive to those long lockdown days, gave us an NWSL education and familiarised us with a catalogue of internationally acclaimed players. Amongst these, there were plenty that impressed, yet a particular sibling duo stood out as integral fixtures in their respective teams. Sam and Kristie Mewis distinguished themselves from the pack, each exerting their tailored command of the midfield to derive the strengths of those around them. Describing the year 2020 could quite accurately serve as a dictionary definition of the word ‘impossible’. Sports events, entire seasons and prestigious international competitions were all cruelly whipped away from us by an aggressively obnoxious predator. But amongst the ever-present dread emerged positives to grab on to, rising to the top of the void with little shards of light. Indeed, women’s football returned, albeit slightly differently to what we are used to. Back in June, the National Women’s Soccer League dosed us with a much-needed tonic, hosting a month-long knock-out tournament that was streamed worldwide. That was it, all eyes on the Challenge Cup. The tournament brought an incentive to those long lockdown days, gave us an NWSL education and familiarised us with a catalogue of internationally acclaimed players. Among these, there were plenty that impressed, yet a particular sibling duo stood out as integral fixtures in their respective teams. Sam and Kristie Mewis distinguished themselves from the pack, each exerting their tailored command of the midfield to derive the strengths of those around them. Younger sister, Sam Mewis, began the year in an Atlantic blue North Carolina Courage strip, and is ending it over 3500 miles away from her homeland, donning Manchester City’s iconic sky blue. Mewis started in all five of the NCC’s Challenge Cup games before the top seeds surprisingly crashed out in the first of the knock-out rounds. The 28-year-old was then one of five USWNT members to make the move across the Atlantic to join the Women’s Super League for the 2020/21 season. Bringing with them an enticing excitement, the impact of each of these players had the potential to swing one of two ways. Yet, each have managed to make a mark, with Mewis leading the line, arguably finding her feet the quickest of the quintet. Infiltrating Manchester City’s established midfield was never going to be an easy task, even for a World Cup winner, yet Mewis took to it like a duck to water; feet under the table with immediate effect. In fact, Mewis has slotted in with such an immaculate ease, it is becoming increasingly difficult to recall a time in which she was not nullifying defensive lines in the English league. Since joining Manchester City in the summer, Mewis has racked up six goals, including bagging her first European goal in her Champions League debut. She also became only the third American player to score in an FA Cup final, which City ultimately went on to win. But her goalscoring escapades are merely the tip of the iceberg. Mewis’ aerial abilities, startling agility and ingenuity to assist are what truly mark her as one of the finest signings of the league. To polish off her successful year, rather fittingly Mewis has also just been named ‘US Female Soccer Player of the Year’. Undoubtably a deserved feat given her consistent performances across all clubs, leagues and competitions. Across the pond, Kristie Mewis, continues to work wonders in the heart of Houston Dash. The Dash became the somewhat unlikely winners of the Challenge Cup. With every game they saw off the competition while exuding an alluring charm and a rousing of unity. This sense of togetherness drew out the very best in each player, yet the eye, almost unconsciously, was repeatedly drawn to Houston’s middle third, and in particular, Mewis. Mewis’mouth-watering passing ability, menacing runs and her cognition in envisioning pockets of play made her the ultimate creator, one simply to be held in the highest regard. The captain’s band may not have been wrapped around her upper arm, but Mewis was unmistakably a central cog that propelled the Dash to victory. The 29-year-old has since carried this exquisite form into the Fall Series. The Dash respectably finished in second place, with Mewis impressively scoring twice and notching up five assists in just four games. It is no wonder then, that Mewis was subsequently called up to the national team for their October and November training camps. Throughout her career, Mewis has endured her fair share of turbulence. Being traded five times, overcoming disappointment with the national team, suffering an excruciating ACL injury and being halted in her tracks by a global pandemic; it certainly has not been the easiest of rides. But through sheer resilient grit, Mewis made her return to the international scene, six years since her last appearance, in a friendly against The Netherlands this November. Of course, as fate would have it, this match topped Mewis’ year off in style as she claimed her second international goal, 2722 days after her last. And so, in what has been possibly the most intense period of upheaval many of us have experienced, the Mewises, Mewis’, Mewii, Mewes (insert alternative plural here) have presented a welcomed distraction from our collectively bleak affairs with a glint of excellence. But more than that, Kristie Mewis’ story is one that brings a smile, yet it is a story that is far from over. Her tale is one of utter perseverance; a reminder that even in the very worst of times, there are always better days ahead.

A brief round-up on all twelve teams in the Women's Super League and their performances over the 2022/23 season Barclays WSL Season Round-Up Sunday, 28 May 2023 By Paul Donegan A brief round-up on all twelve teams in the Women's Super League and their performances over the 2022/23 season Chelsea FCW Chelsea Chelsea continue to lead the way as Emma Hayes' side won the title for the fourth season in a row and completed the league and FA Cup double for the third. On their way to becoming champions, the Blues won every home league match during the season. They also had an impressive run in the UWCL only losing in the semi-finals to Barcelona, as well as reaching the final of the Conti Cup. Sam Kerr maybe hasn’t been as clinical in front of goal as previous seasons but she has scored some vital goals including a late equaliser at the Emirates against Arsenal, the only goal in the home win against Manchester United and two in the final day win at Reading. Another star for Chelsea this season has been Guro Reiten who finished with top assists in the WSL. Manchester United This has been Manchester United’s best season since they were re-formed in 2018 as they finished second in the WSL, reached their first cup final and qualified for the UWCL for the first time. Marc Skinner saw his side score late winners against Arsenal, Aston Villa and Manchester City. However, a result that may have cost his side the title was a 0-0 draw at home to Everton. Skinner kept a settled starting eleven throughout the season but making the most of players like Lucia Garcia and Rachel Williams as impact substitutes. Leah Galton and Ona Batlle have been their standout players during the season, whilst Mary Earps kept a league record 14 clean sheets and won the WSL Golden Glove. Arsenal With having four players suffering ACL injuries since November, and others missing parts of 2022/23 campaign with injuries, finishing third in the league, winning the Conti Cup and reaching the UWCL semi-finals has got to be seen as a good season for Jonas Eidevall’s side. At the Emirates, they suffered a stoppage time defeat to Manchester United whilst Chelsea snatched a late draw there. These along with a 0-0 draw at West Ham may be matches seen as ones costly points were dropped in. Frida Leonhardsen Maanum has impressed playing in a more advance role, scoring some spectacular goals along the way. The Gunners have led the way on attendances with a record crowd being set for the WSL of 47,367 when they played Spurs at home. Manchester City Finishing fourth was City’s lowest league position for nine years. After a large turnover of players last summer, they had a slow start to the season, going out of the UWCL and losing to Aston Villa and Chelsea in their first two WSL matches. Things improved as the squad settled and they were in with a chance of grabbing a UWCL place until the final day. Positive results include beating both Arsenal and Chelsea at home but loses away to Liverpool and Manchester United late in the season may have cost them the European place. Stars of the season for City include Bunny Shaw who scored 20 league goals and finished second highest scorer in the WSL, and Yui Hasegawa who played in a deeper midfield role than she previously has. Aston Villa Carla Ward’s side have had an outstanding season as they finished in their highest ever position in the WSL. The summer signings of Rachel Daly, Kenza Dali, Danielle Turner and Manchester United loanee Kirsty Hanson along with Jordan Nobbs and Lucy Saniforth in January have proved inspired. Daly was named as WSL Player of the Season after winning the Golden Boot with 22 goals which equalled Vivianne Miedema league record. She also became the first English player to score 20 goals in a season, and in the away match against Reading in May became the third player in the leagues history to be directly involved in five or more goals in a single game. Everton Everton have had a good season under Brian Sorensen. After finishing tenth last season and having three managers during it, Sorensen has led the Toffees to sixth position in his first season in charge. Gabby George’s performances in defence, a couple of good loan signings in Jess Park and Aggie Beever-Jones and Katja Snoeijs seven goals have helped them to a mid-table finish. Their most impressive result was a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at home. The club broke its attendance record when the Merseyside derby took place at Goodison Park in March when 22,161 fans watched. Liverpool Back in the WSL after winning the Championship last season, and they couldn’t have got off to a better start when they beat the champions Chelsea 2-1 at Prenton Park in their opening match. After that, Matt Beard’s side have never really struggled despite not winning away from home all season. Another impressive result came when they beat Manchester City at home. Katie Stengel finished as top scorer for the Reds, finding the back of the net nine times. Missy Bo Kearns also impressed. Liverpool got a club record attendance of 27,574 for their match against Everton at Anfield in September. West Ham United After a decent start, it turned into a bit of a struggle for the Hammers. They got 15 points from their first 10 games but then Paul Knochesky’s side went into a slump during the second half of the season picking up only two points from their next 10. They didn’t win a league match between December and May though one of the draws during that time was at home to Arsenal. Almost half of their 23 WSL goals have come from Viviane Asseyi and captain Dagny Brynjarsdottir who scored 12 between them. T ottenham Hotspur A disappointing season for Spurs who were in danger of being relegated until the second last game. After winning three of their first five games, including an 8-0 battering of Brighton, Tottenham then lost their next nine league games until they beat Leicester in mid-March. During the winless run, Rehanne Skinner was sacked with Vicky Jepson being appointed interim manager, but this didn’t improve things greatly. Bethany England joined in January from Chelsea for a domestic transfer record fee for a women’s footballer. Her 12 goals since joining have almost single-handedly kept Spurs up. Leicester City After losing their first six matches, Lydia Bedford was sacked as manager at the end of November with Willie Kirk coming in to replace her. Even then it took another four matches until the Foxes registered their first win and points of the season in January. Since then they got 16 points in total which was enough to guarantee safety. They created WSL history by becoming the first team to turn around a seven-point deficit at the bottom of the league and stay up. Kirk made some good loan signings in January including midfielder Ruby Mace from Manchester City and goalkeeper Janina Leitzig from Bayern Munich who has made some vital saves and kept five clean sheets. Brighton & Hove Albion It was a season of four managers at Brighton. After picking up only three points from their opening five matches, Hope Powell resign as manger at the end of October. Amy Merricks took over until the New Year and things improved slightly. They then brought in Jens Scheuer but his spell in charge of the Seagulls only lasted two and a half months before Merricks was back in charge again. Melissa Phillips was then appointed in early April and has led them to safety by picking up seven points since taking over. Elisabeth Terland finished as top scorer with seven goals. Reading Reading had their normal slow start to the season but this time didn’t really recover from it. They finished bottom of the WSL and are relegated to the Championship for next season. There were signs of hope with home wins against Leicester and Tottenham in the first half of the season, but a defeat to Everton at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in April after being two goals ahead might have the final straw as heavy defeats followed this. The Royals went the whole season without picking up any points away from home adding to their problems. Graphic - Charlotte Stacey

An own goal, a red card, a vocal crowd...it was all happening at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Back Match Report WSL: Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United An own goal, a red card, a vocal crowd...it was all happening at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Getty 12 February 2023 By Finley Chung A Molly Bartip own goal just sixty seconds after Bethany England had pulled Spurs level proved to be the difference in a thrilling encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Leah Galton had given the visitors the lead on 67th minutes, before England had pulled Spurs level eight minutes later, but Batrip’s own goal sixty seconds after, saw the visitors come away with all three points and go top of the table, even after Ella Toone was sent off late in the second half. Rehanne Skinner named an unchanged side for the first time this season from Spurs’ 3-2 loss against Chelsea last weekend, with Marc Skinner making one change to the Manchester United XI, with Nikita Parris starting out on the right in place of Lucia Garcia who drops to the bench. Both sides also fieled a former player in this one, with former Man United defender Amy Turner lining up for Spurs and Rachel Williams, who scored 6 goals in 38 appearances in a two year stint for Spurs, taking place on the visitors bench. Marc Skinners side come into this one unbeaten in five in all competitions which finds themselves two points behind leaders Chelsea, but have played a game more than the blues at the time of writing. Rehanne Skinners Spurs are desperate to pick up three points here, something they haven’t done in the league since the 8-0 victory over Brighton in late October. Our visitors were the ones to get the game underway in N17 and they started well, with Ona Battle storming down the right channel and getting a cross in which evaded everyone in United red. Alessia Russo then sped off down the right channel and whipped in a low ball which was cut out, which quickly turned into Spurs’ first foray forward with Bethany England spinning away from her marker but her cross had the same outcome as Russo’s down the other end, being cut out by a defender. United then ventured forward again with some more great work by Russo to hook the ball in, but the header from Leah Galton at the back post looped nicely into the gloves of Tinja-Riikka Koirpela in the Spurs goal. The first clear cut chance of the game came for United, when Ella Toone picked up the ball halfway in the Spurs half and played a superb ball through to Leah Galton, who beat Shelina Zadorsky for pace but saw her effort go narrowly over the bar. The offside flag was next to deny Galton, who angels a superb header past Korpella in the Spurs goal, but the linesman’s flag halted any forthcoming celebrations. Spurs were then next to try their luck in this basketball style few minutes, with Bethany England being played through by Evelina Summanen but England’s effort sailed over the bar when she really ought to have tested fellow Lioness, Mary Earps in the United goal. United were getting a lot of joy against Kerys Harrop and Molly Bartrip down the Spurs left and Nikita Parris was next to burst down that particular channel as she whipped in a wicked, teasing ball which was just missed by Russo in the middle. Some good pressing by Harrop and Summanen from Spurs allowed the latter to get a shot off from the left corner of the penalty box but it was well blocked by Mille Turner. In added time at the end of the first half, Katie Zelem picked out Toone who once again had picked out a little pocket of space in-front off the Spurs defence and looked to thread through Nikita Parris, but Molly Bartrip got a cross to dent her with a fantastic tackle in the last action of the half. Half Time - Spurs 0-0 Man United The visitors started the second half like they did the first, winning a free kick out on the left side, which Zelem whipped in but it narrowly missed the head of Galton in the middle. Zelem herself was next to try her luck just minutes later after Toone won the ball on the edge of the Spurs box but the former dragged her effort well wide of Korpela’s right hand post. United kept the pressure on and won a free kick about 25 yards from goal, which Zelem stood over and her effort was just wide of the post, the Red Devils kept coming at Spurs with Russo next to try her luck, twisting and turning away from her marker on the edge but her left footed effort, like Zelem’s beforehand couldn’t find the target and flew wide. The travelling support, who had been in fine voice all game, must’ve thought what else they would’ve had to do to score, when Toone burst through after great work from Parris but her effort cannoned back off the post and luckily for Spurs, rebounded away to safety. Spurs then had their first foray forward in the second half and they themselves will be wondering how they didn’t take the lead. Ashleigh Neville played a delightful ball through to Mana Iwabuchi whose ball was begging for any sort of contact to divert it into the net but it evaded everyone in the middle and rolled right across the face of goal. Down the other end, Korpella was then called into action again when Russo again muscled her way into a shooting position and her effort took a wicked deflection off Bartrip which Korepla adjusted too very well too make a fine save down to her right. United had come out firing in this second half, with Toone again seeing a low effort blocked. However, it wasn’t long till they finally got their breakthrough on 67 minutes, when a ball in from the right from Battle fell to Galton who this time eventually made no mistake, smashing the ball past Korpela to break Spurs’ resistance and give United the lead. Marc Skinner made two changes after the goal, with Nikita Parris and Hayled Ladd being replaced by Leah Garcia and Vilde Boe Ris. Rehanne Skinner then called on her bench, to bring on Rosella Ayanne in place of Celin Bizet. Spurs dug in though and on 75 minutes they were rewarded for their persistence, Bethany England was sent away down the left, cut inside her marker and bent a curling shot goal wards which arrowed into the corner, past Mary Earps to bring Spurs level with her fourth goal in five games since joining the lillywhites. Spurs’ joy was to be extremely short lived however as from the resulting kick off, substitute Lucia Garcia broke down the right and her ball across was put into her own net by Molly Bartrip and United were back infront, less than sixty seconds after they’d been pegged back. Further drama then occurred as Ella Toone and Evelina` Summanen had a coming together right on the touchline, which led to Toone reacting and pushing Summanen to the ground with the referee Amy Fearn brandishing the red card for Toone’s actions meaning that she earned herself a three game suspension, while Man United would have to see out the final ten minutes with ten players. Rehanne Skinner reacted to this numerical advantage, by taking off Amy Turner and bringing on Angharad James to strengthen the midfield, with former Spurs player Rachel Williams then coming on in place of Russo for Man United. Spurs pressed forward, looking to make use of their numerical advantage in the last five minutes with England’s cross being well beaten away by Earps. Lucia Garida then looked to put the game ahead for the visitors with a mazy run but her effort lacked power and was well held by Korpela in the Spurs goal. A huge roar went up around the ground as five added minutes were signalled at the end of the seance half. United’s first goalscorer Leah Galton was then withdrawn for Martha Thomas Spurs worked one final opportunity from a corner, but Neville’s ball in was well held by Mary Earps in the United goal, but the hosts couldn’t find a way back into it and Manchester United secured the three points which took them top of the WSL table heading into the FA Cup break. Full Time - Spurs 1-2 Manchester United Spurs: England 75’ Man Untied: Galton 67’, Bartrip (og) 76’

After five years with the club, Tash Harding sets her sights on pastures new Back Natasha Harding departs Reading After five years with the club, Tash Harding sets her sights on pastures new Girls on the Ball 22 May 2022 By Charlotte Stacey Reading captain Tash Harding has announced she will be leaving the Royals at the end of the season. Harding has been a crucial figure at the club, playing in numerous roles across the pitch since joining in 2017. The Welsh international has made 83 league appearances for the club and has scored four goals. Reading boss Kelly Chambers said, “I’d like to thank Tash for everything she has done in her time with the club. She’s been an integral part of the team, and a huge part of our growth as a club.” News