London City add another crucial three points in the title race with a 3-1 in over Lewes Back Match Report WC: London City Lionesses v Lewes London City add another crucial three points in the title race with a 3-1 in over Lewes Edward Payne 14 March 2023 By Paul Donegan London City Lionesses returned to winning ways on Sunday as they beat Lewes 3-1 in the Women’s Championship. The Lionesses goals all came during the first half with Sarah Ewens, Shanade Hopcroft and Kyra Carusa scoring them. They were reduced to ten players with just over 15 minutes left when Lily Agg was sent-off. Ellie Mason scored a late consolation goal for Lewes. London City Lionesses’ interim head coach Nikita Runnacles was away on international duty with England’s under 17s. They made two changes from the side that had lost to Sheffield United last weekend with Grace Neville and Carusa coming in for Lucy Fitzgerald and Karin Muya. Scott Booth made three changes for Lewes from the starting eleven that had beaten Sunderland with Amber-Keegan Stobbs, Isobel Dalton and Emily Kraft replacing Rhian Cleverly, Nat Johnson and Emma Thompson. On a fairly pleasant afternoon at Prince Park, the home side took the lead in the 7th minute. Lewes tried to play out short from a goal kick which Carusa charged down and the ball fell to Ewens who finished into the top corner. Sarah Ewens celebrates her goal. Photo: Edward Payne Lewes’ first chance game in the 12th minute but Mason put the ball well wide of goal. Kraft had another effort for the visitors two minutes later but this one went over. London City Lionesses made it 2-0 in the 17th minute when Hopcroft’s in swinging corner went straight in despite the efforts of a Lewes defender on the line who tried to keep it out. Jamie-Lee Napier had a couple of efforts for the hosts but saw Sophie Whitehouse save her shot in the 27th minute, then seconds later saw a shot blocked by Lewes’ defence. Hopcroft put a long-range free kick wide before Carusa had the ball in the net for the Lionesses but it was ruled out due to a foul in the build-up. Both goalkeepers then made saves with the home sides Shae Yanez stopping a Mason shot in the 34th minute, and Whitehouse denied Napier at the other end three minutes later. In the 38th minute, the hosts made it 3-0 when Ewens picked up a loose ball in midfield, passed to Carusa who finished from the edge of the area with a lovely shot to score her first goal for London City Lionesses. Lewes made a double substitution at half time with Nat Johnson and Grace Palmer coming on for Dalton and Kenzie Weir. This led to a change in formation with them switching to 4-3-3 and Stobbs playing further forward. Photo: Edward Payne After making these changes, the visitors had the first couple of chances of the second half with Mason putting an effort wide, then Yanez caught a long-range free kick from Amelia Hazard. Napier’s first time shot for the home side went wide in the 59th minute. Mason saw a shot saved as Lewes looked to get back into the game. Yanez then stopped a looping effort from Stobbs in the 71st minute. Agg was shown a straight red card by referee Isabel Chaplin for an off the ball incident in the 74th minute Mason scored the Rooks consolation goal in the 83rd minute when she headed in Palmer’s cross into the corner of the net. Yanez made a good save as the match entered stoppage time when she tipped away Mason’s header. The win sees London City Lionesses remain in second place in the league, six points behind Bristol City who they play on Sunday at home. Lewes stay in seventh position, and their next game is also on Sunday when they welcome WSL side Manchester United to The Dripping Pan in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Line-ups London City Lionesses (3-4-3): Yanez, Bennett (c), Rodgers, Nolan, Neville, Hopcroft (Kitching 90’+3), Agg, Joel, Ewens (Muya 77’), Carusa, Napier (Primus 77’) Unused substitutes: Cull, Shepherd, Fitzgerald, Heuchan Goals – Ewens 7’, Hopcroft 17’, Carusa 38’ Sent-off – Agg Lewes (3-5-2): Whitehouse, Weir (Johnson 45’), Wardlaw, Barton, McKenna, Stobbs (Thompson 77’), Hazard, Dalton (Palmer 45’), Howells, Mason (c), Kraft Unused substitutes: Moore, Cleverly, Copus-Brown, Pursey, Longhurst, Mushtaq Goal – Mason 83’ Booked – Wardlaw Referee – Isabel Chaplin

Stevenage suffer 3-2 defeat to Royston Town Back Match Report Royston Town v Stevenage Stevenage suffer 3-2 defeat to Royston Town Ed Payne 15 September 2022 By Ed Payne Stevenage FCW found themselves on the opposite end of their previous result as they fell to a 3-2 defeat at Royston Town FCW. Goals from Amy Gooderham and Becky Shephard were not enough for The ‘Boro and the watching crowd of 106 were treated to a hotly contested match. Stevenage started well and Gooderham saw an early effort saved by Amy Martin. It would take another 15 minutes for her to get another decent opportunity and this one was not squandered. A free kick was awarded to ‘Boro which was swung in towards the far post towards Vicky Neal who headed the ball downwards. Gooderham was there to meet the ball as it rose again and headed in from close range. Both teams exchanged chances before Town equalised with seven minutes of the half remaining. Dionne Manning was adjudged to have committed a foul near the right hand corner of the area, Annie Georgiou sent a left footed inswinger that Celine Ray got a hand to, only to see the ball drop over the line. Neal had a good opportunity which was turned behind for a corner and it looked as though both sides would go into the break with the score level. However, ‘Boro gave away a free kick for offside which was pumped direct to the Town front line. Natalie Richardson came up with the ball and from the edge of the box, unleashed a powerful, rising shot that Ray could not keep out and the ball nestled into the back of the net Gooderham had the best moment of the early second half as she broke down the left side and rolled a ball across Martin that went agonisingly wide and narrowly avoided the outstretched foot of Shephard. A penalty shout was turned down for Stevenage and both sides dug in trying to force the game. It was with seven minutes of the half remaining that Shephard levelled the game. After a neat interchange with Shianne Swarres, she let loose a right footed shot from near the away dugout that sailed over Martin. The joy was shortlived, as four minutes later Ray punched clear a free kick that sat up nicely for Richardson outside the area to thunder her volley clean and true and break Stevenage hearts. Line-Ups Stevenage: Ray, Webster (C), Farmer, Neal, Brooks, Swarres, Southby, Hussain, Gooderham, Shephard, Millen Subs: White, Greenwood, Manning, Schofield Goals : Gooderham, Shephard Booked: Manning, Sturgess Attendance - 106

Leagues The Women's Football Pyramid consists of 7 tiers, from professional top flight football down to the county leagues. Please follow the following links to find out more about each league. Barclays Women's Super League https://womenscompetitions.thefa.com/ Barclays Women's Championship https://womenscompetitions.thefa.com/News/FA-WC FA Women's National Leagues https://www.thefa.com/womens-girls-football/leagues-and-competitions/the-fa-womens-national-league Image taken from FA Handbook provided by Chloe Leadbeater Women's Football Pyramid

Birmingham clinch crucial three points from the Seagulls in 3-1 shocker Back Match Report WSL: Brighton & Hove Albion v Birmingham City Birmingham clinch crucial three points from the Seagulls in 3-1 shocker Girls on the Ball 24 April 2022 By Paul Donegan Birmingham kept their survival hopes alive with a 3-1 victory over Brighton. Veatriki Sarri gave Birmingham the lead in the first half before Louise Quinn added a second after the break, Julia Zigiotti got a goal back for Brighton in the last 10 minutes but Quinn scored her second with two minutes remaining to seal the win. Before the match started, Brighton manager, Hope Powell, was presented with a framed shirt to mark her 100th WSL game in charge of the club. Brighton had some early chances with Geummin Lee charging down Emily Ramsey as the Birmingham goalkeeper was slow to clear and then Kayleigh Green sent a looping header straight into Ramsey’s hands. Birmingham took the lead though in the 9th minute when Sarri picked the ball up in her own half and ran through the Brighton defence and finished with a low shot that Megan Walsh got a hand to but not enough to stop the ball from finding the corner of the net. In the 14th minute, Birmingham lost procession and Lee sent a curling shot towards goal that was pushed away by Ramsey. Five minutes later, Danique Kerkdijk saw her header cleared then Inessa Kaagman’s cross landed on the roof of the net as Brighton looked for an equaliser. Birmingham had an opportunity to double their lead kick in the 24th minute but Gemma Lawley headed over a free kick. Play went straight up the other end where both Emma Kullberg and Aileen Whelan saw efforts blocked by the Birmingham defence. In the 29th minute, Brighton had another chance when Kaagman’s shot was pushed away by Ramsey after some nice build up play and seconds later the same player saw her header miss the target. Just before half time, Birmingham were given a free kick about 30 yards out which Sarri curled wide. In first half injury time, Lee saw her shot tipped over as Ramsey made another good save to keep Birmingham in the lead. From the resulting corner, Green’s header hit the crossbar and went behind. Birmingham went into the break a goal ahead despite Brighton having more of the clear chances and Ramsey making some vital saves for the visitors. Brighton started the second half on top too but were sometimes lacking a final ball after good build up play. Ramsey made another save on the 56th minute when she pushed away Kullberg’s shot. Brighton had another chance five minutes later when they saw a shot blocked then Danielle Carter’s shot went through a crowd of players and was tipped behind by Ramsey. Birmingham’s first chance of the half came in the 68th minute when Sarri sent a cross right across the goal but too far in front of the other forwards. A few minutes later, Emma Koivisto headed wide for Brighton. There were opportunities coming at both ends now with Libby Smith shooting wide for Birmingham as they broke quickly. Birmingham made it 2-0 in the 75th minute when Sarri beat a few Brighton players and sent in a good cross that was headed in by Quinn at the far post. Brighton looked to get back into the game and in the 78th minute, Kaagman saw her effort from around 35 yards out hit the top of the crossbar and go over. Two minutes later, Kaagman and Koivisto both saw efforts blocked. Brighton did score in the 84th minute when a cross was played back by Maisie Symonds to Zigiotti who finished from about 12 yards to set up a nervy last five or so minutes for Birmingham. However, Birmingham made sure of the win four minutes later when Quinn scored her second of the game and fifth WSL goal of the season as a ball from a corner fell to her and she finished from about 6 yards. There were no more chances as Darren Carter’s Birmingham won 3-1 to move 4 points behind Leicester at the bottom of the WSL. Birmingham still have to play Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa so it might be tough still to stay up but this victory has given them a chance. Line ups: Brighton & Hove Albion: Walsh, Le Tissier, Williams, Kerkdijk (Koivisto 69’), Kullberg, Whelan (Carter 45’), Connelly, Lee (Symonds 63’), Zigiotti, Kaagman, Green Unused substitutes: Bowman, Bance, Simpkins, Startup Goal – Zigiotti 84’ Booked – Kerkdijk, Le Tissier Birmingham City: Ramsey, Cowie, Scott, Louise Quinn, Lawley, Robertson, Pennock (Smith 63’), Finn, Murray, Sarri, Lucy Quinn (Whelan 90’) Unused substitutes: Hourihan, Ewens, Ryan-Doyle, Jenner, Worsey, Wildgoose, Cole Goals – Sarri 9’, Louise Quinn 75’, 88’ Booked – Smith Referee – Elizabeth Simms Attendance – 1,206

The Eagles are soaring after another win, this time a 3-0 over Watford Back Match Report Crystal Palace take another three points for the road The Eagles are soaring after another win, this time a 3-0 over Watford Crystal Palace FC Women 7 November 2023 By Paul Donegan All the goals came in the first half as Crystal Palace beat Watford 3-0 in the Women’s Championship on Sunday afternoon. Elise Hughes scored twice and Shauna Guyatt got the other goal with a stunning strike as the Eagles kept up with the other sides at the top of the table. The pitch at Grosvenor Vale had passed a morning pitch inspection after all the recent rain but it still looked heavy throughout the match. Crystal Palace took an early lead in the 3rd minute when after Molly-Mae Sharpe’s interception as Watford tried to clear the ball, it found Hughes who went past the Hornets goalie and finished in front of the noisy visiting supporters and their flags. Welsh international Hughes had a chance to double the away sides lead in the 9th minute but shot over from just inside the area after the hosts defence had given the ball area again. The home sides first opportunity came when Coral Haines played a nice through ball to Carly Johns but Demi Lambourne, on her first start in goal for Palace, and the offside flag stopped the attack. Watford goalkeeper Jacqui Goldsmid saved a low effort from Hayley Nolan with her feet in the 22nd minute. The Hornets best chance so far came ten minutes later but the Palace keeper got a touch to Ellie Head’s low effort to slow the ball down before it was cleared. The visitors had the next effort when Sharpe’s first-time low shot was saved in the 35th minute. Bianca Baptiste curled an effort wide five minutes before half time for the Golden Girls. In the 42nd minute, Palace made it 2-0 when Sharpe’s cross was headed into the net by Hughes for her second goal of the match and ninth Championship goal of the season. England under-19 international Guyatt made it 3-0 to the Eagles in the first minute of additional time when her superb shot from 30-yards went in off the crossbar. Not a bad way to score your first senior goal! Shanade Hopcroft’s shot was tipped onto the woodwork by Goldsmid three minutes into the second half as the away side looked to extend their lead further. Watford’s Baptiste saw a shot saved in the 52nd minute, then seven minutes later at the other end, Sharpe cut in but her shot went over. Charlotte Fleming came on in the 55th minute for Watford for her first appearance since suffering an ACL injury in August 2022 whilst playing for London City Lionesses. Poppy Wilson came on at the same time for the Hornets after being out injured since the opening day of the season. The Golden Girls then had a good spell and a few opportunities. Gemma Davison saw a low shot saved in the 63rd minute, seconds after she had come onto the pitch as a substitute. Johns saw an effort tipped onto the bar in the 66th minute before the ball was cleared by the visitors defence. Lambourne needed treatment after this that led to her having to go off injured. Immediately after the goalkeeping change, with Natalia Negri coming on, the hosts hit the woodwork again when Baptiste’s shot from 25-yards hit the post. The Eagles had the final chances of the match with Hughes coming close to completing her hat-trick in the 79th minute but shot wide after being played in. A minute later, Hopcroft saw her free kick pushed away by the diving Watford goalkeeper. In the fourth minute of stoppage time, Isabella Sibley came on as a substitute for Palace for her first appearance in 11 months after an ACL injury. With the top four at the start of the weekend all winning in the Championship, Crystal Palace remain in fourth place, four points behind leaders Sunderland but the south London side do have a game in hand. Watford are still in 11th position and one of the relegation places after their sixth consecutive league defeat, now five points behind Reading who they travel to on Sunday. The Eagles are at home to bottom of the league side Lewes on the same day. Line ups Watford: Goldsmid, Lafayette, Meiwald (Leon 62’), Mclean, Baptiste, Johns (Rossiter 82’), Head (Davison 62’), Bennett, Georgiou (Wilson 55’), Chandler (c), Haines (Fleming 55’) Unused substitutes: Harris, Palisch, Reid, Henson Booked - Haines Crystal Palace: Lambourne (Negri 69’), Arthur (Potter 67’), Everett (c), Sharpe (Sibley 90’+4), Hughes, Cataldo, Nolan, Doran, Guyatt (Fibley 82’), Dennis (Bailey-Gayle 67’), Hopcroft Unused substitute: Johnson Goal – Hughes 3’, 42’, Guyatt 45’+1 Booked - Doran Referee – Megan Wilson Attendance – 295

Ground Guide Charlton Athletic Charlton Athletic This guide is based on my visit to The Oakwood on Sunday 21st November 2021 to watch Charlton play London City Lionesses in the FA Women’s Championship. A normal warning that this guide is based on one visit so things might be different if you decide to visit The Oakwood. Address Old Road, Crayford, Kent DA1 4DN Location and Ground History The Oakwood ground is located in Crayford in south-east London, near the border with Kent and not far from Dartford. The ground is just north of the town centre. VCD Athletic FC have played at The Oakwood since 1918 but did move out between 1999 and 2006 before returning. Charlton Athletic started playing at the ground in 2018 when they got promoted to the FA Women’s Championship. The ground has a capacity of 1180. There are also tennis courts and a bowls green as part of The Oakwood complex. Getting There Crayford station is about a 15 minute walk from the ground, passing through Crayford town centre and then a slight uphill climb. On the Sunday I went, trains were going to Dartford or back to into London via Woolwich from Charing Cross and Cannon Street stations in London and also passing through London Bridge station. Barnehurst station is a bit further away, about a 20 minute walk, and trains from here were running between Victoria and Dartford. The 492 bus stops closest to the ground (Old Road/Perry Street stop) whilst the 96 and 428 buses pass through Crayford town centre. There is car parking available at the ground (from what I can see is free) which is on a first come first serve bases with stewards pointing you in the right direction as to where to park. Some cars were parked on the grass behind one end of the ground. If the car park is full, then it would have to be street parking near the ground. Tickets I bought tickets online which cost me £10 (adult price) plus a £1.50 booking fee. I had to register with the club before buying online. The ticket came as an attachment on the confirmation email which I printed off and showed at the turnstile where it was taken from me. You were able to pay on the day at the turnstile, with the prices being £12 for adults and £7 for concessions (U18, Over 65 and disabled) and it is card payment only. Buy Tickets https://booking.cafc.co.uk/en-GB/categories/Womens%20Home%20Games The Stadium The turnstiles, which opened about an hour before kick off, are in one corner of the ground with a slight slope leading down to pitch side. There is a covered seated stand, which has a few rows of green and white seats (all unreserved), covering about a third of the pitch on one side of the ground with the slope and uncovered flat standing on either side of this. The opposite side has covered flat standing on either side of the dugouts and camera position. Both ends are uncovered flat standing. The dressing rooms are set back slightly from the ground, diagonally across the pitch from the turnstiles. There was a bag search before going into the ground. There are toilets inside the ground next to the turnstiles as well as inside the clubhouse. The ground is a bit exposed and was very cold when I went with the wind blowing from the north across it. Food and Drink There is a tea hut, to the left of turnstiles as you go in, with some benches and picnic tables near this at the top of the slope. The clubhouse is outside the ground, as you are walking up to it through the car park. The clubhouse is spacious with plenty of tables and chairs as well as a pool table and Sky Sports was on the TVs. The exit gate in the middle of the turnstiles is open at half time if you want to go out to the clubhouse then. Card and cash payment is accepted at the tea hut and in the clubhouse. In Crayford town centre, there are some restaurants, take-aways and a couple of pubs. Merchandise I didn’t see any merchandise available to buy at the ground (I may have missed it of course) and was told there are online programmes (link to free digital programme posted on Twitter). There is a crossbar challenge at half time, where you could win up to £150, which you are entered for if you buy a ticket before 9am on the Friday before a Sunday match.

Dulwich Hamlet v Saltdean Photographer Liam Asman Absolute scenes in Newhaven as Dulwich Hamlet beat Saltdean 5-1 and were crowned champions of the London and South East Regional Women's Premier League! Dulwich Hamlet have earned promotion into the FA Women's National League.

Manchester City and England midfielder Georgia Stanway says she’s at a point in her career where she’d like to “master” just a single position on the pitch Georgia Stanway wants to make the midfield her own Back Manchester City and England midfielder Georgia Stanway says she’s at a point in her career where she’d like to “master” just a single position on the pitch Girls on the Ball Wednesday, 16 February 2022 By Charlotte Stacey Stanway, 23, is well known for her versatility and ability to perform consistently well wherever she is situated. However, speaking to the press ahead of the Arnold Clark Cup, the Manchester City star noted the difficulties that come with being so adaptable. “It’s hard being versatile. Obviously its good for tournaments and when you’re talking about small squads and being about to fill-in if somebody’s injured.” “But I’ve hit a point now where I want to knuckle down on one position, I want to try and become the best I can in that position.” When asked exactly what position she prefers to play in, Stanway takes herself back to her roots in honouring the midfield role that started her career, the very role she has been performing so well in recently. “Midfield. I’ve played there through the youth and age groups coming up through England. That’s where I started out my career at Manchester City. It’s been a difficult 15 months at Manchester City always having to fill in for people, but obviously we were unfortunate with injuries. Whether it be the fullback position, the wide position, even the nine position. I’ve played in a back three at times, I’ve been second choice goalkeeper!” The 23-year-old touched on her current form at club level which has seen her become Manchester City’s all-time top scorer having now netted 64 goals for the Citizens. “With the past run of form I’ve had with Man City I’ve been experiencing the midfield and that’s where I’ve been doing well.” “So I need to make that midfield position my own and come into myself a little bit, know what I’m good at and what I need to get better at and push on as the midfielder that I started out as.” Stanway has joined up with the Lionesses and will take place in the Arnold Clark Cup. England’s first match is against Canada on 17th February at 7:30pm (GMT) at Riverside Stadium, the game will be shown live on ITV4.

Stevenage earn a 4-1 victory over Barking and advance to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup Back Match Report Barking v Stevenage Stevenage earn a 4-1 victory over Barking and advance to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup Edward Payne 1 March 2023 Barry Rust Stevenage FCW advanced to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup after a comfortable victory over the imperious Barking Ladies, who have a strong grip at the top of the division below. Boro’, who currently sit atop the Premier Division, had shown tremendous professionalism in seeing off the challenge of the Essex side and secured yet another game against Royston Town Ladies – a side they will have faced no less than four times by the end of the season. Boro’ found their rhythm immediately. Rosy Wodhams – the eventual Player of the Match - set the tone when she curled in a phenomenal right footed cross into the path of top scorer, Amy Makewell who could not quite stretch high enough to make contact with the ball. Five minutes later, Stevenage were ahead. Lucy Webster took a short throw to Makewell who turned and hooked a tasty ball into the eighteen yard box. Adella Jackson called for the ball but could not claim it through the growing crowd and the ball dropped to the feet of Emily Schofield who would make no mistake from close range for her first cup goal since the County Cup Final of 2022. Schofield was on a mission from that point onward and the hard-working forward nearly doybled the scoreline with an absolute thunderbolt from her right foot that crashed off the crossbar to safety. At the opposite end Barking were spurred into action as they took advantage of a stray ball. Sarah Finch foreshadowed later events as she had two attempts in quick succession, both of which were bravely blocked by the consistent Nicole Farmer. Photo: Edward Payne After a lull in opportunities Stevenage carved out another opportunity, this time down the left flank. Wodhams put Makewell through, but she was unable to turn her marker. Instead she laid the ball off to Schofield at the edge of the box who received her reward as she expertly placed the ball into the bottom right corner, beyond Jackson. Barking were stunned into action. Their best chance came from a fantastic effort by Finch, that was turned behind by Mia O’Brien for a corner. The ball was swung in and Finch finally stuck the ball into the net to reduce the arrears. Stevenage were determined to restore their advantage though. The continual energy of the team was on display as Wodhams won the ball back high up the pitch and advanced into the box. Her attempted pass deflected back into her path creating an opportunity which the young midfielder took without question, firing Boro’ back into a two goal lead. Webster saw an opportunity fly over the bar before the halftime whistle, but it was her shot after it that led to the final goal of the game. Her excellent run into the box gave her the perfect opportunity to shoot. The captain did exactly that but the goalkeeper could not hold it and as it squirmed through her hands, Makewell pounced to put the fixture to bed. Photo: Edward Payne The rest of the match was notable for missed opportunities but also for a celebratory reason as Jess Poulter became the first player from the ETC (Emerging Talent Centre) at Stevenage to play for the first team. This was announced in September as the FA chose Stevenage to host one of the centres and this was a landmark moment for the club. Manager Fadi Mazloum was content at the final whistle as he said “We controlled the game well and didn’t give them the chance to play. Jess controls the game well at CDM for the development side and you could see that in some of the tackles she made when she came on.” Poulter herself remarked, “I was hopeful I could get some time to show what I can do. I really enjoyed it.” A feeling that was no doubt shared by the whole Boro’ team as they travelled back to Hertfordshire. Line-ups Barking XI: A Jackson, Thomas, Daly, Cook, Oxby, Holt, Colthart, F Pridie, Finch, Bunton, C Jackson Subs: Cooper, N Pridie, Retim, McCarthy Goal: Finch Stevenage XI: O’Brien, Webster (c), Neal, Farmer, Nebbitt, Bodily, Wodhams, Shephard, Schofield, Millen, Makewell Subs: Price, Bellinger, Poulter, Lightning, Fidler Goals: Schofield x 2, Wodhams, Makewell

London giants Arsenal and Chelsea face off in the Conti Cup final, here's all you need to know Back Match Preview Conti Cup Final: 2023 Bumper Preview London giants Arsenal and Chelsea face off in the Conti Cup final, here's all you need to know Edward Payne 4 March 2023 By Paul Donegan The 2023 FA Women’s League Cup (Conti Cup) final takes place at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park on Sunday 5th March (kick off 3pm GMT) between London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. Arsenal have won the Conti Cup a record five times whilst Chelsea are two times winners. This will be the West London sides fourth appearance in a row in the showpiece event. For the Gunners, it is the first time since 2020 they have reached the final. Arsenal will be looking to win their first silverware since 2019. In the last four years, Chelsea have won eight trophies. The final is a 24,000 sell out, so it looks like the record attendance set of last year of 8,004 for the final and competition is going to be broken! Here is our guide to the final including information about how Arsenal and Chelsea reached Selhurst Park, the two squads, the stadium and transport, and TV/radio coverage. How they got to the final Both sides didn’t enter the Conti Cup until the quarter-final stage due to playing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. In the last eight, Chelsea travelled to Tottenham Hotspur where they won 3-1. Sam Kerr scored twice and Fran Kirby got the other for the Blues. They faced another London derby in the semi-final when they were drawn to play West Ham United away. The side from West London won 7-0 with Kerr scoring four this time. The other goals were scored by Kirby, Lauren James and Guro Reiten. Arsenal have had two home ties at Meadow Park as they reached the final. In the quarter-finals, they beat Aston Villa 3-0. Frida Leonhardsen Maanum was the star of the show and scored twice with Caitlin Foord getting the other goal. In the semi-final they took on holders Manchester City and with the scores being level at 0-0 after 90 minutes, the match went to extra-time. Stina Blackstenius scored the only goal in the 93rd minute for the Gunners as they won 1-0. Past Meetings The sides have faced each other twice this season already. In January, they drew 1-1 at the Emirates Stadium in the WSL. Kim Little opened the scoring from the penalty spot for Arsenal before Sam Kerr scored a late equaliser for Chelsea. They played each other in the FA Cup fifth round last weekend at Kingsmeadow. Chelsea won that tie 2-0 with Sophie Ingle and Kerr scoring the goals. In the Conti Cup, there have been five meetings between the sides with Arsenal winning three of them and Chelsea two. Their only previous meeting in the final of this competition was in 2020 which Chelsea won 2-1 thanks to Bethany England’s late winner. Photo: Edward Payne Arsenal Arsenal normally play in a 4-3-3 formation but head coach Jonas Eidevall did change to 3-4-3 in two recent games against Manchester City. Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema are both unavailable due to long-term injuries, and Gio is cup-tied after playing for Everton earlier in the season in the Conti Cup. Eidevall confirmed in his pre-final press conference that no other players are ready to return yet so this probably rules out Teyah Goldie. In goal, Manuela Zinsberger has been number one for most of this season but January signing Sabrina D’Angelo has played in both Conti Cup games. D’Angelo picked up an injury whilst on international duty with Canada recently and Eidevall said on Friday that she is progressing but not sure whether she’ll be available. Kaylan Marckese is another goalkeeper that can be called upon. Noelle Maritz or Laura Wienroither normally play on the right side of defence for the Gunners. In central defence, it will probably be two from Leah Williamson, Rafaelle, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Jen Beattie. Both Steph Catley and Katie McCabe can play on the left side of the back four. Lia Walti normally plays in the defensive midfield role though Williamson can also play in this position. Captain and penalty specialist Kim Little plays a bit further forward in the middle of the pitch, and Frida Leonhardsen Maanum has been playing as an attacking midfielder recently. Two January signings, Victoria Pelova and Kathrine Khul, are other midfielders that could be involved in the final. From those available, the attacking wide positions are normally filled by Lina Hurtig (who Eidevall confirmed is in contention after a recent injury), Caitlin Foord and McCabe. Stina Blackstenius normally plays in the centre furthest forward though Foord can also play here. Youngster Michelle Agyemang can also play in attacking roles. Photo: Edward Payne Chelsea Emma Hayes has typically lined Chelsea up in a 4-2-3-1 formation this season. Hayes confirmed in her pre-final press conference on Friday that “the same number of players are available this week as last week”. Pernille Harder, Katerina Svitkova and Fran Kirby will all miss the final with injuries. There doesn’t seem to be a number one goalkeeper with both Zecira Musovic and Ann-Katrin Berger starting a fair share of games each. Emily Orman is another goalkeeper in the squad. Eve Perisset is a regular starter at right back. The two central defenders could come from Millie Bright, Kadeisha Buchanan and captain Magdalena Eriksson. Eriksson has also been a frequent starter at left back this season. Chelsea have a couple of versatile defenders with Jess Carter who can play anywhere across the back and Niamh Charles who can play in either full back position. Other defenders that might be involved include Maren Mjelde (can also play in midfield) and Alsu Abdullina. In midfield, Sophie Ingle normally occupies the defensive position while Erin Cuthbert always seems to be everywhere. With Fran Kirby injured, Jelena Cankovic played in the attacking midfield position last week. Melanie Leupolz and Jessie Fleming are other players who could feature in midfield for the Blues. The attacking three normally consists of Lauren James, who was recently Player of the Tournament in the Arnold Clark Cup after her performances for the Lionesses, and Guro Reiten in the wide positions with Sam Kerr furthest forward. Kerr may have only played two games in this season’s Conti Cup so far but is already top scorer in the competition with six goals, and has also scored in the last two finals. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd is an alternative for James and Reiten. Selhurst Park Selhurst Park Stadium is in South London, just north of Croydon. The stadium opened in 1924 and has been the home of Crystal Palace FC ever since. The current Main Stand was designed by Archibald Leitch and opened at the same time as the ground. The stadium hosted two football matches during the 1948 Summer Olympics. Two clubs, Charlton Athletic FC and Wimbledon FC, had spells groundsharing at Selhurst Park between 1985 and 2003. The Women’s FA Cup final was held here in 2001, 2002 and 2003 but this will be the first time the Conti Cup final has taken place at this stadium. Selhurst Park consists of four separate stands. They are the Main Stand, Holmesdale Road Stand (Arsenal end), Arthur Wait Stand and Whitehorse Lane Stand (Chelsea end). The capacity of the ground is 25,486. Turnstiles into the stadium open at 1pm, two hours before kick-off. Bags small enough to fit under seats can be taken in but will be searched. The stadium is cashless so only debit/credit card payments are accepted for food/drink inside it. Programmes will be available to buy from outlets around the stadium. It is encouraged supporters travel by public transport. The closest railway stations to the stadium are Norwood Junction (due to engineering works will only be served by a replacement bus on Sunday), Thornton Heath and Selhurst which are all about a 10/15 minute walk from the stadium. The latter two are served by trains from central London (Victoria station), Clapham Junction and Croydon. A number of bus routes pass close to the ground including the numbers 50, 75, 130, 157, 198 and 468. There is no spectator parking available at the ground. There is limited parking for accessible users only which must be prebooked. Several residential streets surrounding the stadium are now permitted to permit holders only so check if parking nearby. Free cycle parking is provide on-site from three hours before kick-off. Head to the CPFC Information Point (Entrance 9) for bicycle parking instructions. Photo: Edward Payne Fan Zone The fan zone will be open from midday in the main car park by entrance 10. Match Officials The referee for the final is Kirsty Dowle and she will be assisted by Ceri Williams and Sophie Dennington. The fourth official is Lou Saunders and Abby Dearden is the reserve assistant referee. TV/Radio coverage In the UK, the final will be shown live on BBC One/Sport Website/iPlayer with coverage starting at 2:25pm (GMT). There is live radio commentary of the final on talkSPORT 2. Their coverage starts at 2pm (GMT). Outside of the UK, it will also be available to watch live on the FA Player.

Manchester United soar to the top of the table after an emphatic 4-0 win over Brighton Back Match Report WSL: Brighton v Manchester United Manchester United soar to the top of the table after an emphatic 4-0 win over Brighton Edward Payne 2 April 2023 By Paul Donegan Leah Galton scored twice and Rachel Williams and Lucia Garcia scored further goals as Manchester United beat Brighton 4-0 at the Broadfield Stadium on Saturday lunchtime. The win sees United move three points clear (as of Saturday) of Manchester City at the top of the Women’s Super League (WSL) though they have played a game more. The attendance of 4,375 was a record for Brighton at this ground. Brighton went into this match with no league win since November. Interim head coach Amy Merricks made one change from their 2-2 draw at Reading last Sunday with Libby Bance coming in for Guro Bergsvand. Manchester United had beaten West Ham 4-0 at Old Trafford last Saturday and head coach Marc Skinner made one change from that starting eleven with Nikita Parris dropping to the bench and Vilde Boa Risa coming in to replace her. Neither side had any real opportunities in the opening 10 minutes or so. Manchester United won a corner in the 12th minute, and Galton headed in Katie Zelem’s cross from close-range to give the visitors the lead. The United fans who were behind that goal celebrated, and they also made a good noise throughout the game. Brighton first chance came in the 29th minute when an inswinging corner from Poppy Pattinson was headed over by Emma Kullberg. A couple for decisions went against Brighton frustrating their players, coaches and fans. Interim head coach Merrick was asked about this afterwards and said “I think the officials are trying their best, I think there needs to be more support around it, and support their performances in terms they need to be full time”. She added more investment is needed into officiating to support the game where it is now. If this is done, she thinks this could take the women’s game to another level. Boa Risa headed towards goal in the 37th minute but there was not enough power on it and Lydia Williams caught at the second attempt. A minute later, the Norwegian international was unable to control the ball 6-yards out box and it went out for a goal kick. Photo: Edward Payne Referee Stacey Fullicks now frustrated the United fans and Ella Toone when she blew for a free kick when the England international had just received the ball. Millie Turner couldn’t control the resulting free kick and ball went behind. As the fourth official signalled one minute of additional time, a nice move from the home side involving Julia Zigiotti and Geummin Lee down the right side finished with a cross reaching Pattinson who put her shot into the side netting. In opening minutes of second half, Pattinson put a corner into side netting. The South coast side had a better chance in the 52nd minute when Pattinson’s cross evaded Lee in the middle but found Katie Robinson, she passed back to Veatriki Sarri whose effort was saved by Mary Earps. Former Brighton player Maya Le Tissier saw an effort blocked at one end before the Seagulls counter-attacked but Robinson was a bit slow to pass to Lee and the chance was gone. Manchester United doubled their lead in the 66th minute, a bit against the run of play since half time. Galton picked the ball up and got away from Jorja Fox, took ball around Williams and finished low into the net from tight angle. Head coach Skinner was asked about Galton after the match and responded by saying “she is one of the best left sided players I have ever worked with”, and the club are “lucky to have her and she is a very talented player”. He also noted this second goal was “hugely important” after the Seagulls good start to the second half. Immediately after going two goals behind, the home had an opportunity but Elisabeth Terland sent her shot straight at Earps. Toone had the ball in the net in the 75th minute but the offside flag was up to deny her. United had another chance a minute later when the ball was played through to Alessia Russo but Williams got down to save. Zigiotti had a chance for Brighton in 81st minute but her effort from 18-yards through a crowd of players went narrowly wide of the post. Rachel Williams saw a shot saved by Lydia Williams, before the United substitute did find the net shortly after when she headed in a corner to make it 3-0. The visitors scored a fourth a minute later when another substitute Garcia picked up a loose ball and went round Williams before putting the ball in the net. Skinner said the Spanish international was unlucky not to start this game and also noted that United have “got a wonderful talent, she is learning lots this year, four goals shows her focus, there is going to be lots more to come from Lucia” Zelem had the final chance of the match for Manchester United in stoppage time but her shot was saved. When speaking to the media after the match, Marc Skinner commented about the team that he is “proud of them and what they’ve done” and this was a “wonderful performance and really pleased, ranks up there as one of the best performances based on the circumstances”. He mentioned they take it game by game and did their job today. He was also asked about players who don’t start that often and if they will get chance (Jayde Riviere etc). He responded by saying “we have got very talented players already starting in positions and very talented players that can come into positions” and noted they like consistency especially when you don’t need to change it for the sake of it. Amy Merrick thought for “a large portion of the game we were in it, threatening, good passages of play, some good movement” She continued by saying they had a decision to make when it went 2-0 “either go for it or don’t, we went for it and that opened up some space in behind at times with pace of Leah Galton etc.” She was pleased with how her side is competing in each game and it positive they are competing with sides like Manchester United. This result leaves Brighton two points above bottom side Leicester but they have played a game less whilst United ride high at the top of the WSL table (as of Saturday). Brighton and Manchester United play each other again after the international break in a fortnight’s time in the FA Cup semi-finals, this time in Leigh. Line ups Brighton & Hove Albion (5-4-1): L. Williams, Fox, Morse, Connolly, Kullberg, Pattinson, Robinson, Bance (Terland 64’), Zigiotti (c), Sarri (Visalli 90’), Lee Unused substitutes: Walsh, Startup, V. Williams, Stott, Park, Ferguson, Carter Booked – Zigiotti, Pattinson Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Earps, Batlle, Le Tissier, Turner, Blundell, Zelem (c), Ladd, Toone, Boa Risa (R. Williams 60’), Galton, Russo (Garcia 78’) Unused substitutes: Middleton-Patel, Mannion, Riviere, Tounkara, Cascarino, Parris, Thomas Goal – Galton 12’, 66’, Williams 86’, Garcia 87’ Referee – Stacey Fullicks Attendance – 4,375

Northern Ireland clinch a momentous win as Rachel Furness becomes the country's record goalscorer. Back Match Report WWC Qualifying Game: Northern Ireland v North Macedonia Northern Ireland clinch a momentous win as Rachel Furness becomes the country's record goalscorer. Colm Leneghan 30 November 2021 By Josh Bunting Northern Ireland were on cloud nine on Monday night as they eased past North Macedonia 9-0 in a World Cup qualification clash in Belfast, a night that saw Rachel Furness become the top scoring player in Northern Irish history. After winning 11-0 on Thursday it was another straightforward victory against the same opponent on a bitterly cold evening at Seaview Stadium in front of a sell out crowd. The home side had the ball in the net inside 10 minutes however it was ruled out as Simone Magill was judged to handle the ball before planting it into the back of the net. However it was 1-0 for Kenny Shiels side three minutes later when Furness played a sensational ball Into Kirsty McGuiness who looked up and fired her effort across the face of goal and into the net via the post. The girls in green were in complete control of the match as captain Marissa Callaghan fizzed an effort wide from outside the box. Furness who needed one more goal to become the top goal scorer in Northern Ireland’s history was then denied by a good save from Magdalena Lekovska in the visitors goal as the midfielder met a corner. However on 30 minutes Rebecca Holloway made it two with a stunning strike from range after taking the ball out of her feet and letting fly seeing the ball nestle into the top corner of the net. It wasn’t long before Furness did become a record breaker when she made it 3-0 with the ball falling to her outside the area before slotting into the net to make it a 37th international goal for the Green and White Army. Northern Ireland started to run riot as two minutes later it was 4-0 McGuiness adding her second of the game when she spotted the keeper off her line before curling the strike into the top corner of the net beyond the helpless goalkeeper. As half-time approached Lauren Wade was denied a fifth by a good save from Lekovska who came off her line quickly to make the save after Wade was played in on goal. Wade was to be frustrated again on the stroke of half-time when she had the ball in the net but her celebrations were cut short following the offside side being raised after a neat team move. Shiels made two changes at half-time as he brought on Ciara Waitling and Joely Andrews in place of Rebecca McKenna and Sarah McFadden. McGuiness had the first opportunity of the second half as she was played in on goal but failed to complete her hat-trick when she was under pressure from a challenge and slipped the ball wide of the target. Northern Ireland were pressing and pressing and had another big chance when McGuiness crossed for Magill who was on the stretch but the Everton striker couldn’t make a connection on the ball. Magill who was outstanding then hit the crossbar when Callaghan played a cross in but Magill thumped her header off the woodwork before it bounced away to safety for North Macedonia. Cliftonville winger McGuiness however did make it 5-0 and completed her hat-trick following a cross from a Magill with a classy finish. Holloway who scored her first goal for her country on Thursday was off celebrating again a few minutes later as the Birmingham City full-back made it 6-0 when she got on the end of a low Wade cross before guiding the ball into the net. Magill thought she had her goal as North Macedonia were tiring when the striker received the ball inside the box before turning quickly but she could only fire wide of the target. McGuiness was then to be replaced by young Glentoran striker Kerry Beattie for the remainder of the game. Six became seven on 74 minutes when Magill did get a deserved goal as she danced past the opposition defenders before planting the ball into the net with confidence adding to her superb run of goalscoring form. Shiels then made another substitution with 8 minutes left when Caitlin McGuinness replaced the two goal hero Holloway. There was room for an eighth when Furness added her second of the night when Wade swung in a superb cross onto the head of the midfielder and she made no mistake in thumping her effort into the back of the net. The final piece of action in the game saw the home side extend their lead when Beattie added a ninth for her first Northern Ireland goal after the keeper failed to deal with a cross allowing the striker to poke the ball into the net. It was the perfect way for Northern Ireland to round off a magical year as they look ahead to 2022 with the a first ever Euros on the horizon. ____ Northern Ireland Burns, McKenna (Watling, 46 mins), Nelson, McFadden (Andrews, 46 mins), Vance, Wade, Callaghan (McDaniel, 65 mins), Furness, Holloway (C McGuinness, 83 mins), Magill, K McGuinness (Beattie, 70 mins). Unused subs: Flaherty, McCarron, Burrows, Hamilton, Caldwell, McLaren, Harvey-Clifford. North Macedonia Lekovska, Jankovska, (Zivikj, 54 mins), Mileska, Milchevska, (Paneska, 54 mins), Boseska, Petrovska, Shemsovikj (Markovska, 46 mins), Maksuti, Mustafa (Gjorgjseska, 85 mins), Saliihi (Husein, 78 mins), Petrushevska (Velkova, 65 mins). Unused subs: Kolarovska, Kolevska, Velkova, Joshevska, Pavlovska.