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Quick guide to the teams in Group C Euro's Information and News Get to know: Group C Girls on the Ball By Paul Donegan 7 July 2022 Netherlands The Netherlands are the defending champions having won it on home soil in 2017, beating Denmark 4-2 in the final. They qualified by finishing top of their group and winning all 10 games. This will be their third appearance in the finals. FIFA Ranking – 4th Manager – Mark Parsons Squad 1. Sari van Veenendaal (PSV) 2. Aniek Nouwen (Chelsea) 3. Stefanie van der Gragt (Ajax) 4. Merel van Dongen (Atletico Madrid) 5. Lynn Wilms (VfL Wolfsburg) 6. Jill Roord (VfL Wolfsburg) 7. Lineth Beerensteyn (Bayern Munich) 8. Sherida Spitse (Ajax) 9. Vivianne Miedama (Arsenal) 10. Danielle van de Donk (Lyon) 11. Lieke Martens (Paris Saint-Germain) 12. Victoria Pelova (Ajax) 13. Renate Jansen (FC Twente) 14. Jackie Groenen (Manchester United) 15. Caitlin Dijkstra (FC Twente) 16. Daphne van Domselaar (FC Twente) 17. Romee Leuchter (Ajax) 18. Kerstin Casparij (FC Twente) 19. Marisa Olislagers (FC Twente) 20. Dominique Janssen (VfL Wolfsburg) 21. Damaris Egurrola (Lyon) 22. Esmee Brugts (PSV) 23. Barbara Lorsheyd (ADO Den Haag) Sweden This will be Sweden’s 11th appearance in the finals. They won the first Euros in 1984 and have finished runners-up three times since then. They won their qualifying group with seven wins and a draw from their eight games. The 2020 Olympic silver medallist have both the oldest goalkeeper and outfield player in the Euro’s in their squad (Hedvig Lindahl and Caroline Seger). FIFA Ranking – 2nd Manager – Peter Gerhardsson Squad 1. Hedvig Lindahl (Atletico Madrid) 2. Jonna Andersson (Chelsea) 3. Linda Sembrant (Juventus) 4. Hanna Glas (Bayern Munich) 5. Amanda Niden (Juventus) 6. Magdalena Eriksson (Chelsea) 7. Emma Kullberg (Brighton & Hove Albion) 8. Lina Hurtig (Juventus) 9. Kosovare Asllani (Milan) 10. Sofia Jakobsson (San Diego Wave FC) 11. Stina Blackstenius (Arsenal) 12. Jennifer Falk (BK Hacken) 13. Amanda Ilestedt (Paris Saint-Germain) 14. Nathalie Bjorn (Everton) 15. Rebecka Blomqvist (VfL Wolfsburg) 16. Filippa Angeldahl (Manchester City) 17. Caroline Seger (Rosengard) 18. Fridolina Rolfo (Barcelona) 19. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (BK Hacken) 20. Hanna Bennison (Everton) 21. Zecira Musovic (Chelsea) 22. Olivia Schough (Rosengard) 23. Elin Rubensson (BK Hacken) Switzerland Switzerland reached the finals with a 3-2 penalty-shoot out win over Czech Republic after their play-off game had finished 2-2 on aggregate. Their only other appearance in the finals was in 2017 when they went out in the group stage. Manager Nils Nielsen lead Denmark to the final of the Euros in 2017. FIFA Ranking – 20th Manager – Nils Nielsen Squad 1. Gaelle Thalmann (Real Betis) 2. Julia Stierli (FC Zurich) 3. Lara Marti (Bayer Leverkusen) 4. Rachel Rinast (1. FC Koln) 5. Noelle Maritz (Arsenal) 6. Geraldine Reuteler (Eintracht Frankfurt) 7. Riola Xhemaili (SC Freiburg) 8. Sandy Maendly (Servette FCCF) 9. Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic (Barcelona) 10. Ramona Bachmann (Paris Saint-Germain) 11. Coumba Sow (Paris FC) 12. Livia Peng (FC Zurich) 13. Lia Walti (Arsenal) 14. Rahel Kiwic (FC Zurich) 15. Luana Buhler (1899 Hoffenheim) 16. Sandrine Mauron (Eintracht Frankfurt) 17. Svenja Folmli (SC Frieburg) 18. Viola Calligaris (Levante) 19. Eseosa Aigbogun (Paris FC) 20. Fabienne Humm (FC Zurich) 21. Seraina Friedli (FC Aarau) 22. Nadine Riesen (FC Zurich) 23. Meriame Terchoun (FC Zurich) Portugal Late replacements for Russia after they were banned. Portugal finished as runners-up in Group E to Finland in qualifying before losing 1-0 on aggregate to Russia in the play-offs. This is going to be their second appearance in the finals having also qualified in 2017 when they went out in the group stage. FIFA Ranking – 30th Manager – Francisco Neto Squad 1. Ines Pereira (Servette FCCF) 2. Catarina Amado (Benfica) 3. Alicia Correia (Sporting CP) 4. Silvia Rebelo (Benfica) 5. Joana Marchao (Sporting CP) 6. Andreia Jacinto (Sporting CP) 7. Vanessa Marques (Braga) 8. Andreia Norton (Braga) 9. Ana Borges (Sporting CP) 10. Jessica Silva (Benfica) 11. Tatiana Pinto (Levante) 12. Patricia Morais (Braga) 13. Fatima Pinto (Sporting CP) 14. Dolores Silva (Braga) 15. Carole Costa (Benfica) 16. Diana Silva (Sporting CP) 17. Lucia Alves (Benfica) 18. Carolina Mendes (Braga) 19. Diana Gomes (Braga) 20. Francisca Nazareth (Benfica) 21. Andreia Faria (Benfica) 22. Rute Costa (Famalicao) 23. Telma Encarnacao (Maritimo)

Alessia Russo's effort lights up another sold out Emirates Back Match Report Russo brings Derby Delight to Arsenal as they sink Spurs Alessia Russo's effort lights up another sold out Emirates Ryan Asman 3 March 2024 By Finley Chung Another 60,000 plus crowd descended on the Emirates Stadium as the only goal of the game was scored three minutes after half time, with Alessia Russo’s sixth in the league this term giving The Gunners derby delight in N5. The hosts made two changes to their team from the win over Man United, with Alessia Russo coming in to the lineup to replace Stina Blackstenius and Manu Zinsberger replaced the absent Sabrina D’Angelo in goal. Spurs boss, Robert Vilahamn made three changes to his side. Jess Naz replaced Bethany England, Kit Graham was dropped to the bench in place of Olga Ahitnen and there was also a change in goal, with Becky Spencer coming in for Barbora Votikova. A sun soaked Emirates Stadium on a crisp March morning as Spurs got us underway. The visitors were forced back early on as Molly Bartrip, Spurs’ captain for the day had to be well placed to block an early effort from Beth Mead. The Gunners clearly weren’t messing around and had a golden chance to lead after just four minutes. A corner from the right missed everybody and floated all the way o the back post and the awaiting Alessia Russo, who could only prod her effort over the bar with the back post area gaping. Lotte Wubben Moy was then expertly well placed to cut out a threatening through pass, aimed for Martha Thomas. Steph Catley took a flurry of early corner for the hosts, with every single one being right in the danger area and forcing drastic Spurs action at the back, with Evelina Summanen clearing the latest one from the waiting Laia Codina. Spurts’ game plan, much like the victory in December was clear, to sit in and frustrate. They worked some tidy passing out to Celin Bizet who’s pullback evaded all in Lillywhite and Arsenal were able to clear. Spurs had their first real chance just after quarter of an hour, Martha Thomas breaking in down the left, cutting inside Wubben Moy and firing a left footed effort into the gloves of Manuela Zinsberger. Spurs captain, Bartrip was superbly placed again to thwart a Beth Mead effort after the Arsenal Number 9 cut back inside onto her left. The visitors displayed their counter attacking prowess hey again as this time Jess Naz cut inside and sent a dipping effort goanward which Manu Zinsberger superbly tipped onto the crossbar, with the resulting corner coming to nothing and Arsenal able to clear. Spurs were once again defending resolutely and Jamaican international, Becky Spencer was commanding her defence well on set pieces and coming out to claim balls into her area on a frequent basis. The visitors were somehow able to get another body in the way again, this time when Catley stood up a cross to the back post, with the ball eventually worked back out towards Victoria Pelova who’s curling efforts was an easy hold for Spencer. The referee seemed to blow the whistle for the half time break just as an Arsenal counter seemed to die down, with the visitors easily the happier side at the break. Half Time - Arsenal 0-0 Spurs Arsenal flew out the blocks at the start of the second half, with Katie McCabe whizzing a deflected effort offside before the resulting corner was scooped out of play by Beth Mead. Arsenal did get their goal only three minutes after half time, when Beth Mead superbly took down a long raking ball, despite potentially being marginally offside, before plating it across to the waiting Alessia Russo who gratefully tapped into an empty net to give Arsenal the dream second half start. Mead whipped in another teasing cross from the right which just evaded McCabe coming in at the back stick, before Robert Vilahamn Mae a triple change, bringing on Olga Ahitnen, Ramona Petzelberger and Drew Spence, for Ashleigh Neville, Jess Naz and Kit Graham. Lotte Wubben Moy then became the first name in the referees notebook as she was shown a yellow card following a chopping challenge on Drew Spence. With twenty minutes to go, Bethany England was introduced in place of Martha Thomas as Spurs’ fourth change of the game. Three Arsenal changes soon followed, with Stina Blackstenius, Kyra Cooney Cross and the biggest cheer of all, the returning Leah Williamson replaced Alessia Russo, Laia Codina and Victoria Pelova, with the cheer for the returning Williamson, probably louder than the one that greeted Russo’s opener. Vilahamn’s fifth and final roll; off the dice saw Matilda Vinberg introduced for Celin Bizet as we approached the final ten minutes. Beth Mead sent a stinging free kick straight into the arms of Becky Spencer in goal, with Katie McCabe booked after for delaying the restart. Spurs get themselves into a bit of a mess trying to play the ball out, with Bartrip having to be on hand to cut out a Blackstenius cutback into the danger area. Evelina Summanen and Drew Spence were both booked in quick succession for Spurs. Jonas Eidevall then introduced Frida Maanum in place of Caitlin Foord as we ticked towards added time. The announcement of seven added minutes was greeted with despair from the home supporters, but belief from the travelling Spurs fans who saw to as enough time to try and nick something. Spurs wre pushing hard and Arsenal stood firm to somehow smuggle a pullback away from the onrushing Amy James Turner. Spurs huffed and puffed but couldn’t quite force their way through as Arsenal clung on to a precious three points, keeping them within three of leaders, Man City. FT - Arsenal 1-0 Spurs Arsenal - Russo 49’

Chelsea put three past the Toffees in controversial clash Back Match Report Two pens and a red in Kingsmeadow Chelsea put three past the Toffees in controversial clash Ryan Asman 7 February 2024 By Paul Donegan Chelsea returned to the top of the Women’s Super League with a 3-0 win over Everton at Kingsmeadow on Sunday evening. Manchester City had overtaken them after their 2-0 win against Leicester earlier on Sunday but two Guro Reiten spot kicks and an Erin Cuthbert goal saw Chelsea go back three points clear at the summit. Mayra Ramirez, who was making her first start for the home side after recently joining, had their first opportunity in the 6 th minute but got crowded out by Everton defenders before she could get a shot away. Cuthbert then saw an effort from the edge of the area go over following the resulting corner. Jess Carter made a good tackle to clear after the Toffees Heather Payne had played in Rikke Madsen in the 7 th minute. At the other end, Niamh Charles saw an effort blocked three minutes later. The hosts came close to taking the lead in the 21 st minute when a cross across goal found Reiten whose shot was saved by Courtney Brosnan before the ball was cleared off the line. Two minutes later they came even closer to going ahead but Reiten’s inswinging corner was tipped onto the crossbar by Brosnan before being cleared. In the 26 th minute, Chelsea were awarded a penalty when referee Emily Heaslip deemed Clare Wheeler had fouled Johanna Rytting Kaneryd as the Toffees midfielder was clearing the ball. Reiten sent the penalty low into the corner of the net to give the hosts the lead. The visitors best chance of the match came in the 31 st minute but Aurora Galli put her effort high and wide at the far post. The home side had the final chance of the half when James’ cross found Reiten but she glanced her header wide. Melanie Leupolz had the hosts first chance of the second half in the 53 rd minute but her effort from the edge of the area went over the crossbar and out of the ground. Lauren James took the ball past the Everton goalkeeper but her cross was put behind for a corner. Chelsea had two good chances to increase their lead within a minute of each other as the match reached the hour mark. First, after Ramirez had run down the right side, her cross was put over by Rytting Kaneryd from close range. Then James was played in but dragged her shot wide. The home side were awarded their second penalty of the evening in the 71 st minute when Heaslip adjudged that Ramirez had been fouled in the area by Wheeler after the Colombian had made another run down the right side. Reiten stepped up again to send the ball low past Brosnan and make it 2-0. Everton manager Brian Sorensen was shown two yellow cards in quick succession for comments made to the referee as his side were making some substitutions and was sent from the dugout with about ten minutes remaining. One of the home sides substitutes, Mia Fishel, saw an effort cleared off the line in the 82 nd minute. Chelsea made it 3-0 a minute later when after some nice one-touch build up play, Cuthbert finished into the bottom corner from inside the area. Aggie Beever-Jones and Fishel had chances to extend the hosts lead further but there were no more goals before the final whistle was blown. When speaking to the media afterwards, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes felt they were a “ little impatient in the first half” and they “were eager to create chances and wanted to win early” . She continued that “they didn’t do well enough” against Everton’s defence in the first half. Hayes remarked in the second half they were “much better with patience and switches etc ” and “ players who came off the bench made an impact”. Everton assistant manager Stephen Neligan spoke to the press after the match and felt the Toffees were “for large parts of the first half very competitive and for the first 15/20 minutes of the second half we held our own”. He added there were lots of things they were happy about and the performance they put it. He felt there was minimal contact for Chelsea’s second penalty. Chelsea’s next WSL match is on Friday 16 th February when they welcome their closest challengers in the league, Manchester City, to Kingsmeadow. Everton, who dropped a place to 10 th , are at home to West Ham United on the 18 th February, who are now a place above them on the same number of points. Before that both sides are in cup action with the Chelsea taking on Sunderland in the Conti Cup then Crystal Palace in the FA Cup, both at home, whilst Everton visit Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup on Sunday. Line ups Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Lawrence, Carter, Bjorn, Charles, Cuthbert (Cankovic 89’), Leupolz, Rytting Kaneryd (Kirby 68’), James (Nusken 78’), Reiten (Beever-Jones 79’), Ramirez (Fishel 79’) Unused Substitutes: Musovic, Ingle, Perisset, Buchanan Goals – Reiten 27’ (pen), 72’ (pen), Cuthbert 83’ Booked – James Everton (3-4-3): Brosnan, Vanhaevermaet, Finnigan, Stenevik, Bennison, Wheeler (Olesen 78’), Kuhl, Galli, Payne (Hope 79’), Piemonte, Madsen (Bissell 58’) Unused substitutes: Hart, Dale, Snoeijs, Wilding Booked – Wheeler, Brosnan Referee – Emily Heaslip

We caught up with women's football broadcaster, podcaster and author Flo Lloyd-Hughes to chat about her exciting new book, and of course, all things Lionesses Catching up with Flo Lloyd-Hughes, author of The Rise of the Lionesses Monday, 22 May 2023 By Finley Chung We caught up with women's football broadcaster, podcaster and author Flo Lloyd-Hughes to chat about her exciting new book, and of course, all things Lionesses On Her Side “It’s a really, really cool feeling” said Flo Lloyd Hughes, renowned women’s football writer, podcaster and now author, as she spoke to On Her Side about the release of her new book, The Rise of the Lionesses. The book in question is Flo’s first foray into being a published author, looking at the past, present and future of Women’s Football in England. “I’d seen a lot of digital versions of what it would look like, when I got my first copy a couple of weeks ago, it’s one of the best feelings. We’ve tried to time the release with the upcoming World Cup and having actually got my hands on the physical copy, it feels really cool!” The front cover is one of bright and bold colours, with superb illustrations of Chloe Kelly and Leah Williamson adorning the front cover. Flo herself admitted it was a bit of a challenge writing this book with a target audience of 8-12 year olds along with keeping it open for elder readers. “I think it’ll push into older age groups too, especially towards ‘newer’ fans and I even know some adults who aren’t even parents are really keen to read it too. I will say, it’s quite hard to write for kids because you have to bear in mind the language and there were a few moments I’ve had to adapt between things too. I don’t think I’ve made it too childish and for that reason, I thin older readers will enjoy it too”. The book not only focuses on modern day legends such as Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly, but also does a great job at shining the light on heroes of the past such as Lilly Parr and Hope Powell, potentially names that the newer Women’s football fan may not have yet come across. “I wanted to paint as broad a picture as possible and highlight some of the big names, obviously there aren’t enough words to write about every single person. But I wanted to highlight some big names, like Lilly Parr and Hope Powell, who undoubtedly is one of the most influential women ever in English Women’s Football, along with people like Fara Williams, who really epitomises the development of women’s football.” The books release was co-incited with the build up to the upcoming Women’s World Cup 2023 which will take place in Australia and New Zealand. Within Flo’s new book there are snippets of information on players and teams, both England and non-England related, which were really important for Flo to get across. Flo did also touch upon the horrid luck several Lionesses have had with injuries such as Fran Kirby, Leah Williamson and Beth Mead. “It’s really unfortunate for those players and from an England perspective, with the book being released on the back of the Women’s Euros and being released in England, with the success of last summer being such a core focus.” As mentioned earlier, the book touches on individuals and their impact on women’s football in England. One dedication is awarded to the Lionesses all-time top scorer Ellen White who retired from football after last summer's triumph. White, who is now an MBE for her services to football, scored 52 goals in 112 outings for the national side. She also won England Women’s Player of the Year three times alongside a host of domestic achievements including two WSL titles with Arsenal, three League Cups with Manchester City and Arsenal combined, and an FA Cup during her time with the Cityzens. Speaking on White, Flo added: “It’s a funny one, I probably also have been guilty of forgetting the impact of one player. I think looking at what she (Ellen White) did in her career, getting the record goal scorer tally off Kelly Smith and even heading into the Euro’s last year, there were always questions about whether she should be starting. She played SUCH an important role in England’s Euro win, if it wasn’t for her, England maybe wouldn’t have won the tournament. "There are also a lot of new fans and I think it’s important to showcase the talent and legacy someone like Ellen White had, to those who maybe had only discovered her during her latter years with England.” We couldn’t speak to Flo and not ask about that wonderful July afternoon last year, when Chloe Kelly poked the ball home to seal an England major trophy in the Euros which is what a central theme to the book. “Even though I am a journalist, It’s very hard to kind of dis-attach yourself from that ‘England fan’ feeling, so when that final whistle went, my intitial reaction was like 'Oh my god, we’ve just won a major trophy against Germany, at Wembley and you couldn’t have written a better ending to it’. It was like a footballing dream on the players part and the fact I have got this book, as a result of publishers wanting to write more about women’s football after the Euro’s which to me, shows the actual shift.” Finally, we asked Flo about the climax of the WSL season which has just two games to go at the time of writing. Chelsea remain the hot favourites to retain the WSL title, having already beaten Manchester United in the FA Cup final and sit top of the WSL table, two points ahead of the Red Devils. “The Arsenal game will be really interesting (Chelsea’s next match), but they could still win it on the last day of the season. I really do expect Chelsea to go ahead and win the title especially with Reading on the final day who could well be relegated already which could easily be a one sided affair. I feel with Manchester United also having their derby match against City the same weekend as Chelsea v Arsenal, we could well see Chelsea have the upper hand by the end of play”. You can purchase Flo’s new book here , The Rise of the Lionesses: Incredible Moments from Women’s Football. *Edited by Charlotte Stacey

Catch up on all the action of the Women's FA Cup Fifth Round FA Cup Fifth Round, Round-Up Wednesday, 1 March 2023 By Paul Donegan Catch up on all the action of the Women's FA Cup Fifth Round West Ham United The FA Cup fifth round took place on Sunday and it didn’t disappoint, well apart from there weren’t any shocks. Plenty of goals scored of which some were spectacular, there were two penalty shoot-outs, two players scored four goals, a side reached the quarter-finals for the first time in their history and the record winners of the cup exited it for this season. The winners in this round received £20,000 in prize money whilst those that lost got £5,000. Here is my round up of what happened in the eight ties. Lewes v Cardiff City I was at The Dripping Pan to watch Women’s Championship side Lewes take on Cardiff City. Cardiff were the only FA Women’s National League and amateur side remaining in the cup. The tier 4 side had already won five matches to reach this stage, beating Downend Flyers 10-0, Bridgwater United 4-0, Keynsham Town 6-0, Bournemouth Sports 5-0 and Burnley 4-1. Lewes had beaten London Bees 5-0 in the third round then narrowly overcame Ipswich Town 1-0 to reach this stage.Cardiff brought a large travelling contingent with them, lots wearing the clubs bobble hats and scarfs, and they made a fair bit of noise throughout the match. The Lewes supporters had a drum and there was a good atmosphere inside ground. Lewes opened the scoring in the 5th minute when the ball rebounded to Ellie Mason who smashed it into the net.The home side had opportunities to extend their lead but a header from a free kick went just wide four minutes later, and Paula Howells sent a long range dipping effort over the crossbar in the 26th minute. Photo: Lewes FC Mason did make it 2-0 to Lewes in the 28th minute when after being played through she finished low past Cardiff goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan. Rebecca McKenna sent a shot into the side netting, and minutes later Emma Thompson hit the woodwork as Lewes looked to score a third. O’Sullivan made a good save with her legs to deny Lewes in the 41st minute then Mason shot over from inside the area. Cardiff scored in first half stoppage time to halve the deficit, and what a spectacular goal it was! Ingrid Aadland sent an effort towards goal from around 35 yards out which dipped over Lewes goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse and into the net. Mason continued to have chances for Lewes with her seeing a shot go just wide then having a goal ruled out for offside in the opening 15 minutes of the second half. Kirsty Barton then saw a couple of efforts go wide for the home side.Lewes did go 3-1 ahead in the 61st minute when Mason completed her hat-trick with a low shot into the corner of the goal.Cardiff did have a chance to get a goal back in the 67thminute but Whitehouse made a good save to deny them.Mason saw an effort go wide in the 74th minute, then two minutes later she scored her and Lewes’ fourth when she controlled the ball then volleyed it in. McKenna, who I thought had a really good game down the right side for Lewes, set up Thompson but her shot was saved in the 84th minute. It was then announced that Mason was Player of the Match and that the attendance was 857.Lewes scored their final two goals late in the game with Kenzie Weir and Aqsa Mushtaq getting them. There was still time for the home side to hit the woodwork again before the final whistle was blown. The 6-1 win sees Lewes reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. Round-up of the rest of the fifth round Holders Chelsea took on 14-times winners Arsenal in an all Women’s Super League (WSL) tie at Kingsmeadow. Arsenal had chances before Chelsea took the lead in the 21stminute when Sophie Ingle scored. Ann-Katrin Berger made a few good saves for the Blues during the first half. Sam Kerr, on her 100th appearance for Chelsea, scored their second goal in the 56th minute. Chelsea’s 2-0 win means they have now beaten Arsenal in the FA Cup in the last three seasons. The sides meet again in the Conti Cup final on Sunday. There were two other all WSL ties and both went to penalties. West Ham United and Aston Villa couldn’t be separated after 120 minutes at the Chigwell Construction Stadium with the score level at 1-1. Rachel Daly gave the away side the lead in the 50th minute before Dagny Brynjarsdottir equalised for the Hammers in second half stoppage time. There were no goals during extra time so it went to a penalty shoot-out. Both goalkeepers took penalties with Hannah Hampton scoring for Villa then Mackenzie Arnold missed for West Ham which meant the Villans won after spot kicks 7-6 and made it through to the quarter-finals. At Brisbane Road, Tottenham Hotspur played Reading. Both sides had chances but it finished 0-0 after 120 minutes had been played. Reading won the shoot-out 5-4 with Lauren Wade scoring the decisive spot kick to send them through. The Royals have won both their FA Cup ties on penalties this season after defeating Leicester in a shoot-out in the fourth round.Both Manchester clubs had convincing wins against Championship opposition. Manchester United played Durham at home and won 5-0. The first goal didn’t come until the 42nd minute when Vilde Boe Risa scored direct from a free kick. Leah Galton, Hannah Blundell, Alessia Russo and Nikita Parris scored during the second half for United. Manchester City beat Bristol City 8-1 away from home. Khadija Shaw scored four of the goals with the others coming from Ingrid Angeldahl (a cracking effort into the top corner), Julie Blakstad (2) and Jemima Dahou, who scored her first senior goal for the club. Gracie Pearse scored the Robins consolation goal. A great attendance of 1,223 watched this one at the Robins High Performance Centre. Brighton & Hove Albion beat Coventry United 5-0 at the Broadfield Stadium in another WSL vs Championship tie. Brianna Visalli and Lee Geum-Min scored two each for the Seagulls and the other was an own goal from Fran Orthodoxou as the South coast side comfortably made it through.After causing a shock by beating WSL side Everton in the previous round, Birmingham City were drawn away to fellow Championship side Charlton Athletic in the fifth round. The only goal came in extra-time with Birmingham’s Ashley Hodson scoring it to send the Blues through to the last eight. Fifth Round results West Ham United 1 v 1 Aston Villa (Aston Villa won 7-6 on penalties) Manchester United 5 v 0 Durham Charlton Athletic 0 v 1 Birmingham City (after extra time) Lewes 6 v 1 Cardiff City Tottenham Hotspur 0 v 0 Reading (Reading won 5-4 on penalties) Chelsea 2 v 0 Arsenal Brighton & Hove Albion 5 v 0 Coventry United Bristol City 1 v 8 Manchester City Quarter-finals draw The draw for the quarter-finals has been made and these ties are due to be played on the weekend of 18th/19th March (check FA website/clubs social media for kick-off times and locations). Reading v Chelsea Aston Villa v Manchester City Lewes v Manchester United Birmingham City v Brighton & Hove Albion

A quick guide to Tottenham Hotspur who compete in the Women's Super League. Tottenham Hotspur Website https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/teams/women/players/ Manager Rehanne Skinner - ENG Captain Shelina Zadorsky Tottenham Hotspur Ashleigh Neville Photographer: Edward Payne Becky Spencer Photographer: Girls on the Ball Tottenham Hotspur 1/7 Squad Player Position Number Nationality DOB Tinja-Riikka Korpela GK 1 FIN 05/05/1986 Becky Spencer GK 22 ENG/JAM 22/02/1991 Esther Morgan DF 2 WAL 28/08/2002 Shelina Zadorsky DF 3 CAN 24/10/1992 Kerys Harrop DF 6 ENG 03/12/1990 Ria Percival DF 12 NZL 07/12/1989 Asmita Ale DF 13 ENG 03/11/2001 Ashleigh Neville DF 29 ENG 29/04/1993 Josie Green MF 4 WAL 25/04/1993 Cho So-hyun MF 8 KOR 24/06/1988 Tang Jiali MF 9 CHN 16/03/1995 Maeva Clemoran MF 21 FRA 10/11/1992 Jessica Naz FW 7 ENG 24/09/2000 Rachel Williams FW 10 ENG 10/01/1988 Angela Addison FW 14 ENG 09/12/1999 Kit Graham FW 16 ENG 11/11/1995 Kyah Simon FW 17 AUS 25/06/1991 Chioma Ubogagu FW 18 ENG 10/09/1992 Rosella Ayane FW 23 ENG/MAR 16/03/1996 Ground The Hive Stadium, London HA8 6AG

Manchester City are off the mark earning a full three points and a clean sheet against West Ham Back Match Report Jill Roord is back in business in the WSL Manchester City are off the mark earning a full three points and a clean sheet against West Ham Ryan Asman 3 October 2023 By Paul Donegan Lauren Hemp and debutant Jill Roord scored goals early in the second half as Manchester City beat West Ham United 2-0 in the Women’s Super League on Sunday at the Chigwell Construction Stadium. The Hammers Mackenzie Arnold saved Chloe Kelly’s penalty between the goals. Leila Ouahabi was sent off for City later in the match. In her first match in charge of West Ham, Rehanne Skinner gave a debut to Japanese international forward Riko Ueki. She lined her side up in a 5-3-2 formation. Gareth Taylor was without the injured Bunny Shaw for Manchester City so Hemp started in the centre position with Mary Fowler and Kelly out wide. Taylor lined his side up in a 4-3-3 formation. Roord had the first shot at goal for the visitors in the 5th minute which went wide. Roord then dispossessed the home sides Honoka Hayashi before chipping the ball over from the edge of the area in the 15th minute. In the 21st minute, Kelly sent in a good cross from the right side that Fowler put over for City. For a lot of the first half, Manchester City had a lot of possession but didn’t create that many chances whilst West Ham looked at their most threatening on the break but didn’t force Khiara Keating to make any saves. The visitors next chance came in the 37th minute when Ouahabi effort from 20 yards straight at Arnold. A minute later, the assured Keating came out and claimed a West Ham cross. Fowler and Hemp swapped positions late in the first half, and it was Hemp coming in from the left side who had City’s next attempt three minutes before half time but put it over. Arnold stopped a Hemp header right on half time but the offside flag was up anyway. Ueki forced Keating into a diving save in the first 15 seconds of the second half with West Ham’s first, and only, shot on target in the match. Photo: Ryan Asman Manchester City went ahead in the 48th minute when Hemp received a pass from Laia Aleixandri and finished with a lovely curling effort from outside the area into the corner of the net. The visitors were awarded a penalty a minute later after Shannon Cooke handballed in the area. Kelly took the spot kick but Arnold dived to her right and made a fantastic save to keep it out. In the 55th minute, club record signing Roord doubled City’s lead when she got between two West Ham defenders and onto a pass from Aleixandri before finishing with a shot into the bottom corner from 10-yards. Denya Castellanos had the visitors next couple of chances with a half volley that Arnold saved a couple of minutes after their second goal, then a low shot straight at the Australian international goalkeeper in the 64th minute. Ouahabi was sent off for City after she brought down Emma Harries in the 71st minute. There was a slight delay before the free kick was given and another slight delay before the red card was shown whilst it looked like the referee was checking with some of the other officials. The Hammers Shannon Cooke curled an effort wide in the 84th minute. Two minutes later, Asseyi had a chance but put it wide as the home side looked to get a goal back. Filippa Angeldahl had the last chance of the match for the away side during stoppage time at the end of the second half but her shot was easily saved. Both sides are next in action again next Sunday in the WSL with West Ham travelling to Brighton, whilst Manchester City host champions Chelsea. Line ups West Ham United (5-3-2): Arnold (c), Evans, Shimizu, Cissoko, Cooke, Smith, Stringer (Denton 76’), Filis (Flannery 76’), Hayashi, Ueki (Harries 60’), Asseyi Unused substitutes: Walsh, Atkinson, Ziu, Ademiluyi Booked - Cissoko Manchester City (4-3-3): Keating, Aleixandri, Kennedy, Greenwood (c), Ouahabi, Castellanos (Blaksted 83’), Hasegawa, Roord (Angeldahl 89’), Kelly (Casparij 76’), Hemp, Fowler Unused substitutes: Roebuck, Houghton, Coombs, Morgan, Park, Mace Goals – Hemp 48’, Roord 55’ Booked – Castellanos Sent off – Ouahabi 71’ Referee – Abigail Byrne

The game that is waiting for the world to catch up. The Growing Game Wednesday, 28 October 2020 By Charlotte Stacey The game that is waiting for the world to catch up. via Google Images Women's football in England, and indeed worldwide, is beginning to move onto a bigger platform. What was once a somewhat taboo hobby for some, is now hurtling towards the limelight, and is on its way to taking centre stage. Awareness of the women's game is slowly but surely growing. Last year the Lionesses drew in an impressive 11.7 million viewers for their World Cup semi-final, the BBC's biggest live audience of the year. With this mighty feat, paired with increasingly regular attendance across all league games, it is clear that interest in the game is certainly on the rise. Historically, women's football has received very little in the way of funding. The FA finally took the game under its wing 26 years ago, yet the FA's Women's Super League did not turn fully professional until the 2018-2019 season. However, we are now starting to see a larger backing from the FA, as well as development in the way of outside investors. Sponsorship deals from several large, well-known brands for the English national side, together with Barclays sponsorship of the WSL, demonstrate the emergent marketability of the sport. Women's football in England, and indeed worldwide, is beginning to move onto a bigger platform. What was once a somewhat taboo hobby for some, is now hurtling towards the limelight, and is on its way to taking centre stage. Awareness of the women's game is slowly but surely growing. Last year the Lionesses drew in an impressive 11.7 million viewers for their World Cup semi-final, the BBC's biggest live audience of the year. With this mighty feat, paired with increasingly regular attendance across all league games, it is clear that interest in the game is certainly on the rise. Historically, women's football has received very little in the way of funding. The FA finally took the game under its wing 26 years ago, yet the FA's Women's Super League did not turn fully professional until the 2018-2019 season. However, we are now starting to see a larger backing from the FA, as well as development in the way of outside investors. Sponsorship deals from several large, well-known brands for the English national side, together with Barclays sponsorship of the WSL, demonstrate the emergent marketability of the sport. Encouragingly, players in the England squad are beginning to form deals with sponsors, and perhaps quite rightly so. It is, after all, these same players gathering momentum from the front, who are opening themselves up for the criticisms and opinions of the masses. It is important to remember that select partnership is not unusual in any walk of life, and the handful of Lionesses receiving sponsorship should not be alienated in light of this. Whichever way it may be presented, increased investment in the game is crucial for its growth. Yet, we do not underestimate the players championing the game across the leagues. Those who are just as dedicated, and who strengthen the game with as much passion and commitment as those at the top. Lead from the front, build from the back. Major overseas signings are elevating interest in the WSL, and this is subsequently leading to the demand for more league games to be broadcasted. Apps such as the FA player, and select matches chosen by the BBC and BT sport, has meant that there has been a gradual increase in transmission. This has opened the door to larger audiences. However, this coverage is not always reliable, nor transparent. Just recently the BBC advertised the broadcast of several FA Cup 4th round ties. Yet only one match was televised, much to the irritation of those unable to physically attend these games. What is more, many key games continue to be the victims of scheduling conflict. Most recently, the Continental Cup semi-finals took place as midweek fixtures. Whilst this alone is not a huge issue, it does significantly limit the number of fans able to travel. However, with both matches kicking-off at the same time, as well as them clashing with a men's Manchester derby, many viewers, most notably United and City supporters, were stuck between a rock and a hard place. It is scheduling mishaps such as these that hinder the organic growth of the game. Currently for many club fans, the men's game will always take precedence. The issue of equality is ever present in the women's game. Lewes FC's current campaign has succeeded in highlighting the pay gap between the men's and the women's game, identifying the huge difference in winnings. Favourably Lewes FC have found themselves in a position in which they are able to accommodate both their male and female players equally. Whilst this is certainly commendable, unfortunately for most clubs, it simply is not yet possible to sustain equal pay. This is especially true of larger clubs, in which the difference in revenue brought in by the male and female teams is vast. Luckily these players do not play football for money. They play for love of the game and with the respect and support of each other. It is perhaps these qualities that makes the women's game so endearing to watch, and so enjoyable to root for. But whilst Lewes FC's campaign may have a long way to go in achieving equal pay across the board, it has certainly drawn attention to the sheer disparity between the male and female game. Monetary value aside, equality embodies so much more than just pay. Equality encompasses respect, value and dignity; areas in which female players regularly tend to find themselves on the back foot. A recent report featured in the Daily Mail investigated the state of some of the women's facilities in the WSL. What was uncovered was bothersome, but perhaps not surprising. The report highlighted the squalor states many teams are subjected to when travelling, and the less than adequate catering arrangements, amongst other issues. It is here where issues of equality really hit home. What must be instilled is that both male and female players are a part of one club, and should be treated as such. Nevertheless, it is important to recognise that the women's game is not yet expecting the all singing, all dancing facilities harboured by the men's. But what is expected, are half decent amenities, as would be regulation for any other place of work. Or at the very least, a fridge. Criticisms of the women's game, more often than not, question the quality of play. This is then typically compared directly to the men's game. But players can only do so much with what is available to them. There is still much to be said about the condition of pitches and the standard of officiating, which with both cases, there are huge inconsistencies. Yet, despite these factors, there are certainly more than a few female players who would not look out of place in a men's match. Being a part of a sport that is growing is exciting, but also terribly frustrating. Waiting for the world to catch up can definitely be disheartening. The general consensus among governing bodies indicates that a rise in overall interest, including physical attendees and televised viewers, will lead to an increase in financial and promotional backing. Yet with unreliable coverage and continuous scheduling conflicts, we find ourselves in a catch-22 situation. But, with the continuous devotion of fans to raise awareness of the game, and to support their players, there is no reason as to why the game should not naturally flourish. Fans should not fret, there has been substantial growth, and there will continue to be. We are headed toward something special, just you wait and see.

Chelsea book their place in the semi-finals of the Conti Cup after a convincing 3-1 win over Spurs Back Match Report Conti Cup: Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea Chelsea book their place in the semi-finals of the Conti Cup after a convincing 3-1 win over Spurs Chelsea FCW Twitter 27 January 2023 Paul Donegan Chelsea reached the Conti Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday evening at Brisbane Road. Sam Kerr scored twice (though the first might be an own goal from Molly Bartrip) and second half substitute Fran Kirby got the other. Former Chelsea player Drew Spence scored a late consolation goal for Spurs. The pitch had passed an afternoon inspection and it was not as cold as previous evenings, though it was raining heavily as the sides warmed but that got lighter during the match. The home side had won their Conti Cup group to reach this stage. Manu Iwabuchi made her debut for Spurs after joining on loan from Arsenal. Beth England also made her first home appearance against her former side. Rehanne Skinner’s Tottenham lined up with five across the back when defending with Celin Bizet and Kerys Harrop playing as wing backs. When attacking, their formation looked like it turned into 3-4-3. Chelsea were making their first appearance in the Conti Cup this season after not playing in the group stage due to being in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. They made one change from their abandoned game against Liverpool at the weekend with Lauren James coming in for Niamh Charles. Emma Hayes used a 4-2-3-1 formation with the full backs getting forward, especially Eve Perisset, to support. Tottenham had the first chance but a Eveliina Summanen free kick went straight at Zecira Musovic who easily caught it. Chelsea first opportunity came when a ball found Perisset who sent a low shot narrowly wide. Bizet had the next effort for Spurs but again the shot was straight at Musovic. The Chelsea fans were making a lot of noise, and they saw their side have the next chance when a nice move finished with James seeing her low shot saved by Tinja-Riikka Korpela. Korpela made another save when she caught Jelena Cankovic’s 20-yard effort. James had the visitors next opportunity but her low shot was deflected just wrong side of post. From the corner, James had another effort at goal but her powerful shot from 18-yards sailed over the crossbar. In the 38th minute, Chelsea took the lead when Cuthbert’s low cross shot found the back of net when Kerr (or maybe Bartrip, or combination of both) got a touch on it. The Blues had another chance before half time when Perisset’s cross found head of Kerr but the ball went into the keepers hands. The first chance for the second half went Tottenham’s way when Spence shot wide in the 49th minute. It was a fairly quiet start chance wise after the break with neither side having another attempt at goal until the midway point of it when the visitors made it 2-0. James received the ball and went past Harrop then passed to Kirby who finished first time from 12-yards to score Chelsea’s second in the 68th minute. Rosella Ayane saw her shot go wide for the home side a minute after they went two behind. Another nice Chelsea move in the 73rd minute finished with a Kerr shot being blocked. A Chelsea cross was headed narrowly wide of their own post by a Tottenham defender. From corner, a James shot from the edge of area was easily claimed by Korpela. Korpela made two saves in quick succession to stop Chelsea extending their lead when first she came out to block a shot, then seconds later saved another effort with her legs. Chelsea made it 3-0 in the 86th minute when they took a quick free kick which found Kerr who finished when she dinked the ball over Korpela. Five minutes of stoppage time were signalled and both sides had chances during that. A ball from a free kick found England but her low effort was saved for the home side. Chelsea went down the other end but James couldn’t get clean contact on a low cross across goal. Tottenham got a goal back in the fourth minute of added time when Drew Spence found the top corner of the net with a rocket of a shot from just outside the area. The win sees Chelsea through to the semi-finals of the Conti Cup for the sixth consecutive season, they will face West Ham United. Both Spurs and Chelsea start their FA Cup campaigns on Sunday with Tottenham at home to Championship leaders London City Lionesses whilst Chelsea are at home to fellow WSL side Liverpool. Line ups Tottenham Hotspur (5-4-1): Korpela, Bizet, Turner, Bartrip, Zadorsky (c), Harrop, Ayane, Summanen (James 82’), Spence, Iwabuchi (Ubogagu 59’), England Substitutes: Spencer, Naz, Karczewska, Ale Goal – Spence 90’+4 Booked – Ayane Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Musovic, Perisset (Charles 83’), Buchanan, Bright (c), Carter, Ingle (Fleming 61’), Cuthbert, James, Cankovic (Kirby 61’), Reiten (Kaneryd 76’), Kerr Substitutes: Berger, Svitkova, Eriksson, Mjelde, Abdullina Goals – Kerr 38’, 86’, Kirby 68’ Booked – Reiten, James Referee – Sunny Singh Gill

Ground Guide Coventry United By Paul Donegan This guide is from when I went to the Butts Park Arena to watch Coventry United play Crystal Palace on Sunday 10th October in the FA Women’s Championship. Things might be different from this guide of course if you decide to visit this ground. Address Butts Park Arena, Butts Rd, Coventry, CV1 3GE Location and Ground History Butts Park Arena is located fairly centrally in Coventry, about a 20/25 minute walk from the city centre. I arrived in Coventry a bit early so went and had a look around the ruins of the old cathedral and the new one next door. The stadium opened in 2004 as the new home of the Coventry rugby union side with the rugby league side, Coventry Bears joining them there shortly afterwards. Both still play at the stadium now. Coventry United (both men’s and women’s sides) started playing there in 2017 (according to Wikipedia). I didn’t notice much saying that the football sides play there outside or inside the ground. Getting There Coventry station is about a 15 minute walk from the ground and is served by trains from London (Euston), Birmingham, Manchester, Oxford, Reading and lots of other places in between those. There is a car park at the ground but it is pay and display. There are a number of buses that run along Butts Road which goes past the ground. Tickets I bought my ticket online and received a confirmation email which I printed off and took to the match and this was okay to use to get in. It cost me £10 but check the link below for all the prices and if you want to buy tickets for a Coventry United home match. You can pay on the day at the turnstile by cash or card and it is the same prices. Buy Tickets https://culfc-media.co.uk/matchtickets/ The Stadium The turnstiles are in one corner of the ground by the car park. There weren’t any bag searches. There is a big covered seated stand along one side of the pitch whilst the rest of the ground is uncovered standing. The far end of the ground from the entrance was not open for supporters as well as part of the side opposite the stand where the managers and subs are. Above this area there is a scoreboard but this wasn’t working for this match. There are toilets at either end of the seated stand, by the turnstiles and in the entrance area to the bar at the far end. Food and Drink The bar is under the seated stand with the entrance to it being at the far end from the entrance. You can take all drinks outside if you wish and it is card payment only for them. A bit of a lack of food though with the only thing being available to eat were crisps from the bar which cost £1 a packet (Walkers basic flavours). There is a Burger King near the station plus some shops/takeaways and a pub on the walk from station to ground and of course there are lots of places to eat and drink in the city centre. Merchandise Didn’t see any merchandise when I was at the ground but there is a section on the website where you can have a look at things that are available to buy. The programme is only available online.

Lotte Wubben-Moy Position Centre Back D.O.B 11/01/1999 Club Arsenal via The FA

Arsenal v Everton Photographer Adam Mitten A Saturday afternoon in the sun at Meadow Park saw Arsenal inch a win over visitors Everton thanks to Beth Mead's half time goal. Arsenal 2 -1 Everton