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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.

Unique women's football merchandise. Merchandise Stickers Lucy Bronze Sticker Lucy Bronze Sticker Tobin Heath Sticker Tobin Heath Sticker Leah Williamson Sticker Leah Williamson Sticker 1/1 Join Sarah (aka Lucysbronzer ) in her quest to kit out football fans with products to wear out to games, or to support your favourite team and players. The Woso Central Store is as Eco-Friendly as possible, with 100% bio-degradable packaging, 100% recyclable card and tissue paper; along with products being made out of 100% cotton material - not just nice to wear, but also good for the environment! Stickers LeahWilliamsonn_Sticker Leah Williamson Arsenal Sticker nwsl_ATP "Across the Pond" Selection Stickers mewis_sisters The Mewis Sisters Sticker Press_WWC Christen Press WWC Sticker AMorgs_Sticker Alex Morgan WWC Sticker PinoePose Megan Rapinoe WWC Sticker 1/1 Bianca is kitting football fans out on both sides of the pond with high quality stickers. With plenty more in the works, Bianca has started with this awesome collection of USWNT and Houston Dash players, with a little Leah Williamson thrown in for good measure! Chelsea Merch Creed Creations (3) Kingsmeadow Design Puzzle Creed Creations (5) Chelsea Squad Number on Notebook Creed Creations (1) Chelsea Squad Number on Tote Bag Creed Creations (3) Chelsea Squad Number on Cushion Creed Creations (4) Chelsea Motto on Reusable Cup Creed Creations (2) Blue Football Heart Creed Creations (1) Red Football Heart Creed Creations (7) Green Football Heart 1/1 Creeds Creations are able to print their Chelsea designs or football heart designs onto a number of products - including puzzles, phone cases, t-shirts, notebooks, bottles and coasters - as shown in the gallery above. Get in touch with Creed Creations and get yourself some fantastic personalised products! *Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions, concerns or problems with any products featured in the shop. We are happy to contact the seller directly on your behalf.

West Ham draw 1-1 with Manchester City with late goal drama Back Match Report Last minute equaliser earn the Hammers a point West Ham draw 1-1 with Manchester City with late goal drama Girls on the Ball 6 March 2025 By Paul Donegan West Ham United and Manchester City shared the points when they drew 1-1 in the Women’s Super League on Wednesday evening. Bunny Shaw gave the Citizens the lead ten minutes from the end of the match before Manuela Pavi scored a stoppage time equaliser for the Hammers. At the Chigwell Construction Stadium, the visitors had the first opportunities of the match with Kerolin’s cross being too high for Lily Murphy before the Brazilian had the first shot at goal but this was easily claimed by Kinga Szemik. At the other end, Riko Ueki couldn’t get her head on a cross. Ayaka Yamashita got down well to stop a low cross from Shekiera Martinez before Katrina Gorry saw a shot deflected over by Gracie Prior. Verena Hanshaw then shot over from the one of the resulting corners as both sides had early attacks. Kerolin’s crosses from the right-hand side were looking dangerous for Manchester City with another low one going across goal. Another cross from the right side led to shots from Jill Roord and Jess Park being blocked by Shelina Zadorsky in the Hammers defence in the 15th minute. In the 20th minute, Seraina Piubel’s hanging cross for the hosts was put behind for a corner. Anouk Denton then headed over in the 27th minute. The visitors had the next opportunity but Laura Wienroither’s cross was comfortably stopped by Szemik. Murphy got on the end of a through ball for City but her dipping shot from just outside the area was caught by the West Ham goalkeeper. In the 39th minute, the Hammers had the best chance of the match so far when Piubel was played in but her shot from 20-yards was pushed behind by Yamashita for a corner. Three minutes later, the hosts had another good opportunity but the Citizens goalkeeper this time kept out Ueki’s header. Murphy was looking threatening for the away side on the left side with her curling shot going just wide as half time approached. West Ham had the final chance of the first half with the final kick of it when Ueki’s effort from 6-yards was saved. Manchester City did well to defend an early second half attack from the home side. The first attempt at goal in the second half didn’t come until the 58th minute but Szemik easily dealt with Park’s header for the Citizens. In the 61st minute, Roord broke into the area for City with her cross finding Murphy whose low shot was saved. A bit of frantic play in the visitors penalty area finished with Denton’s shot being stopped by Yamashita. Shaw was brought on as a substitute for the Citizens in the 66th minute, and immediately saw her low cross blocked before Roord had a shot saved. Minutes late, Shaw tried an acrobatic overhead kick but this too was stopped by the goalkeeper. City went close to taking the lead in the 72nd minute when Wienroither smashed an effort against the crossbar from 6-yards following a corner. The game had changed in the visitors favour since Shaw had come on, and she headed just the wrong side of the post. Roord fired straight at the goalkeeper just before she was replaced by Vivianne Miedema. Manchester City took the lead in the 80th minute when Shaw finished from close-range to score her 12th league goal of the season after Miedema had got a slight touch on Mary Fowler’s cross to her. Just after four additional minutes had been signalled, Pavi got onto Ueki’s backheel, cut into the area and curled a shot into the net to equalise for West Ham. The draw leaves Manchester City in fourth place in the WSL, a point behind Arsenal having played a game more. West Ham remain in ninth position, nine points above the relegation spot. Line ups West Ham United (3-4-2-1): Szemik, Nystrom (Saez 73’), Tysaik, Zadorsky (Ademiluyi 56’), Denton, Siren, Gorry (c) (Brynjarsdottir 79’), Hanshaw, Piubel, Ueki, Martinez (Pavi 46’) Unused substitutes: Walsh, Smith, Bergman Lundin, Harries, Mengwen Goal – Pavi 90’+1 Manchester City (4-1-4-1): Yamashita, Wienroither, Prior, Aleixandri (c), Casparij (Ouahabi 46’), Hasegawa, Kerolin (Coombs 72’), Park, Roord (Miedema 77’), Murphy (Shaw 66’), Fowler Unused substitutes: Annets, Keating, Layzell, Oyama, Davies Goal – Shaw 80’ Referee – Grace Lowe

All square at Hayes Lane as the London City Lionesses draw 1-1 with Newcastle Back Match Report London City Lionesses and Newcastle United off the mark All square at Hayes Lane as the London City Lionesses draw 1-1 with Newcastle Wing Chong 9 September 2024 By Paul Donegan London City Lionesses and Newcastle United shared the points as two of the Championship title favourites drew 1-1 on the opening day of the season. Shania Hayles opened the scoring for the Magpies in the first half before Kosovare Asllani equalised for the Pride before half time. The attendance at Hayes Lane of 1,781 was a record in a league game for London City Lionesses. On a pleasant afternoon in south east London, Newcastle saw the first opportunity of the match miss the target in the 6th minute. Five minutes later, Elysia Boddy saw a dipping shot from 25-yards go over as the visitors started well in their first Championship game. Emily Orman made a good save in the 16th minute to put behind an effort from Hayles as the away side had the best chance of the match so far. London City Lionesses appealed for a penalty but referee Lisa Benn waved play on. The home sides first opportunity came in the 18th minute but Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah headed over from a free kick. Two minutes later, Hayles gave Newcastle the lead when Jasmine McQuade’s pass found her and she finished with a strike from 10-yards into the net. Boye-Hlorkah had London City’s next chance in the 32nd minute but shot straight at last season’s Championship Player of the Season and Golden Glove winner, Claudia Moan, in the Magpies goal. The hosts went close to equalising a minute later when Boye-Hlorkah’s cross from the right found Lotta Lindstrom at the far post but she saw her effort hit the woodwork and bounce away. A nice attacking move from London City Lionesses in the 39th minute saw them equalise when Lindstrom’s ball into the penalty area found Swedish international Asllani who finished past Moan. With three minutes left of the first half, Orman kept out efforts from Charlotte Potts and Hayles following a Newcastle corner. Emma Mukandi had the last chance of the half for the home side deep into stoppage time but her free kick was saved. Newcastle’s Amy Andrews had the first opportunity of the second period but shot wide. Charlene Meyong put an effort wide from the edge of the area for London City in the 54th minute. Asllani struck a free kick at Moan, after twice being brought back after taking the kick too quickly when passing to the unmarked Mukandi. Forward Isobel Goodwin came on for her London City debut in the 71st minute after only signing from Sheffield United the day before. She had her first chance seven minutes later but shot at the Newcastle goalkeeper. Goodwin then went past Moan but Potts superbly blocked as she was about to shoot into an empty net. Boddy’s effort for the Magpies from 30 yards flew over the crossbar three minutes from the end of the match. The referee brought the action to an end before Newcastle had time to take a corner and the sides had to settle for a point each. The Pride are away to Blackburn Rovers on Sunday whilst the Magpies have the weekend off before playing their first home match in the second tier against Sheffield United on the 22nd September. Line ups London City Lionesses (3-4-1-2): Orman, Goldie, Brougham, Henson, Wilde (Neville 71’), Meyong, Roddar (Scofield 80’), Mukandi, Asllani (c) (Fitzgerald 90’+1), Lindstrom (Goodwin 71’), Boye-Hlorkah Unused substitutes: Moloney, Marashi, Ajao, Brown Goal – Asllani 39’ Booked – Brougham, Roddar, Asllani, Mukandi, Goldie Newcastle United (4-1-2-3): Moan, Cataldo (Joel 69’), Cooper, Potts, Stokes (c), Boddy, McQuade (Sibley 69’), Furness (Stobbs 46’), Barker, Andrews (Lumsden 85’), Hayles (Haywood 63’) Unused substitutes: Hawkins, Watt, Gibson, Greenwood Goal – Hayles 20’ Booked – Stokes, Sibley, Stobbs Referee – Lisa Benn Attendance – 1,781

You Have the Power: Find Your Strength and Believe You Can by Leah Williamson and Suzy Wrack You Have the Power You Have the Power: Find Your Strength and Believe You Can by Leah Williamson and Suzy Wrack Join Leah Williamson, captain of the England women’s football team, as she shows you that you can be a leader at any age, and that huge things can happen when you believe in yourself! In the summer of 2022 Leah led the Lionesses to victory in the European Championships – now she wants to show you that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, both on and off the pitch, no matter what other people say. This positive guide for life will inspire you to lead like a pro, and motivate you to do what you love. Written with journalist Suzanne Wrack, You Have the Power is filled with stories from Leah’s own life and tons of brilliant advice, to show young girls how to find their strength and empower them to follow their dreams. Available to buy: https://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Have-Power-Strength-Believe/dp/1035023164/ref=pd_bxgy_img_sccl_1/257-3022985-0041206?pd_rd_w=okLBv&content-id=amzn1.sym.40f919ed-e530-4b1a-8d7e-39de6587208d&pf_rd_p=40f919ed-e530-4b1a-8d7e-39de6587208d&pf_rd_r=6NPJN3T8Y16ZTHR29WC8&pd_rd_wg=tKco0&pd_rd_r=8695eca5-c007-49db-8dd0-c62fd12bd30c&pd_rd_i=1035023164&psc=1

Elise Hughes' goal secures Crystal Palace's spot at the top after a 1-0 win over Birmingham City Back Match Report Soaring high: The Eagles land at the top of the table Elise Hughes' goal secures Crystal Palace's spot at the top after a 1-0 win over Birmingham City Crystal Palace Women 15 April 2024 By Paul Donegan Crystal Palace moved to the top of the Women’s Championship table with a 1-0 win over Birmingham City on Sunday afternoon. Elise Hughes scored the only goal of the game for the Eagles late in the first half. The Blues had Jade Moore sent off just after the hour mark before Lucy Thomas saved a late Palace penalty. Laura Kaminski lined her side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Ria Percival and Fliss Gibbons both got forward in full back positions with Alexia Potter, the deeper midfielder, dropping back to help in defence. Hopcroft got forward from midfield to support the attack. Emily Simpkins, who was in charge of Birmingham after Darren Carter’s departure during the week, lined the Blues up in a 4-4-1-1 formation. With Choe Yu-Ri and Lucy Quinn both attacking on the wings to support Libby Smith, the formation changed into 4-2-3-1 when going forward. An early Birmingham free kick was easily claimed by Lambourne, but apart from this it was a quiet start to the match with no shots at goal in the first 20 minutes. Moore was booked in the 9th minute after she committed a foul. In the 20th minute, the visitors had the first opportunity of the match when Charlie Devlin played in Smith but with the ball bobbling, she put her shot over the crossbar. The home sides first chances came in the 27th minute when Hughes saw an effort blocked then Isibeal Atkinson’s low shot was saved by Thomas. Devlin’s shot was blocked by Potter on the half hour mark, and at the other end, the visitors goalkeeper claimed a deep cross from Gibbons in the 36th minute. A minute later, Molly Sharpe played in Annabel Blanchard and her curling shot was tipped behind by Thomas for a corner as the Eagles had their best chance of the match so far. Just after one minute of additional time at the end of the half had been indicated, Hughes scored her 16th goal in the league this season to give Palace the lead from close range, finishing Blanchard’s cross. Claudia Walker came on at half time for Lucy Quinn on the right side of Birmingham’s midfield. Smith let the ball bounce after a cross into the area and put an effort over in the 49th minute as the visitors had the first opportunity of the second half. The hosts had the next chance when Sharpe passed to Blanchard who played the ball onto Atkinson whose shot went narrowly wide in the 57th minute. Rebecca Holloway’s powerful run down the left side for the Blues finished with the ball being put behind for a corner. Moore was sent off in the 62nd minute after receiving her second yellow card for a handball when she stopped a Palace attack in the middle of the pitch. This led to Birmingham changing to a 4-4-1 formation with Devlin dropping back deeper into midfield. Shortly after this, Palace made a change with Atkinson coming off and Araya Dennis on which meant Sharpe moved to the left side of midfield with Dennis on the right. Jade Pennock came on as a substitute for the Blues in the 69th minute, making her first appearance after recovering from a hamstring injury she sustained in December. Gibbons shot from 25-yards went just wide of the post in the 79th minute as Palace went close to scoring a second. In the final minute of the match, the Eagles were awarded a penalty after Hughes had been brought down in the area. Blanchard stepped up to take the spot kick but her low effort towards the corner was well saved by Thomas. Birmingham had a late free kick but this came to nothing. Crystal Palace easily held on for the rest of the match to move two points clear of Sunderland and three clear of Charlton at the top of the Championship table with two games remaining. The defeat ended any hope the Blues had of winning the league. Line-ups Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1) : Lambourne, Percival, Everett (c), Nolan, Gibbons, Potter, Hopcroft (Guyatt 90’+2), Sharpe, Blanchard, Atkinson (Dennis 66’), Hughes Unused substitutes: Negri, Arthur, Filbey, Reilly, Doran, Watson, Larkin Goal – Hughes 45’+1 Birmingham City (4-4-1-1): Thomas, Herron, Louise Quinn (c), Lawley, Holloway, Choe (Pennock 69’), Moore, Agg (Harrison-Murray 89’), Lucy Quinn (Walker 46’), Devlin (Cho 69’), Smith (Pullen, 89’) Unused substitutes: Clarke, Dungate, Wilson, Hall Booked – Moore, Walker Sent off – Moore 62’ Referee – Magdalena Golba

All square at Wembley in goalless draw as USA boss Emma Hayes returns to England Back Match Report Nothing to separate England and the USA in Wembley friendly All square at Wembley in goalless draw as USA boss Emma Hayes returns to England Edward Payne 1 December 2024 By Paul Donegan ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

Stevenage claim 5-0 victory over Kings Lynn Town Back Match Report ERWFL Premier Division: Kings Lynn Town v Stevenage Stevenage claim 5-0 victory over Kings Lynn Town Ed Payne 13 October 2022 By Ed Payne It was a five-star performance from Stevenage as they dismantled a tricky King’s Lynn Town at The Walks on Sunday. The goals were shared amongst the team alongside an unfortunate own-goal as Boro’ claimed all three points to maintain third place in the ERWFL Premier Division. After a few early probing balls from Stevenage, they broke again down the right flank. Anna Re sent a teasing ball over the defence and Amy Makewell turned around her marker to collect the ball and slot home past Christina Vivas. That was the 30th goal of her Stevenage career and set her apart as the third highest goal scorer of all time. With just over ten minutes of the half remaining, Boro’ doubled their lead. Kelsey Millen burst forward and saw her initial shot saved and cleared back to her, where she sent a looping shot into the top corner for her first goal at the club. Celine Ray faced her biggest challenge of the half before the next goal. A terrific save down low when Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse found herself alone in the area. The third goal came just five minutes later when Vicky Neal fed Becky Shephard sent a hard, high shot towards goal from thirty yards that Vivas could not keep out. The second half saw Stevenage pick up where they left off. As they battled forward with ten minutes of the half elapsed, Neal won the ball back in the eighteen-yard box. Her little touch gave Amy Gooderham space to get behind the defence and send a low shot to the left of Vivas for the fourth goal of the game. Stevenage continued to pressure Town and the tireless Gooderham continued to cause problems. After some excellent work down the left, she cut into the box and sent a low ball across goal that Town defender Frances Peeling turned in to her own net for a five-goal lead. Tilly Sands came the closest for Town with a low driven shot from distance, but it did not trouble Ray in the Stevenage goal. Millen and Gooderham both had late opportunities to add to their goals, but neither could find the net. In the end it was a comfortable victory and Boro’ move on to next week as they continue their defence of the County Cup in Ware against Wodson Park Ladies. Stevenage: Ray, Re, Nebbitt, Farmer, Neal (c), Price, Millen, Shephard, Greenwood, Gooderham, Makewell Subs: Manning, Webster, Bellinger Goals: Makewell, Millen, Shephard, Gooderham, Peeling (OG)

Manchester United v Everton Photographer Ryan Asman Everton took an early lead over the Red Devils and saw the best action of the first half. Manchester United roused after their half time break and netted four goals with Ella Toone earning herself a brace. Goals from Katja Snoeijs, Millie Turner, Ella Toone and Leah Galton.

Manchester United's Ella Toone on facing Northern Ireland, playing at Wembley and having teammate Alessia Russo back in the England Squad. Ella Toone: Making Memories at Wembley Back Manchester United's Ella Toone on facing Northern Ireland, playing at Wembley and having teammate Alessia Russo back in the England Squad. Girls on the Ball Wednesday, 20 October 2021 Charlotte Stacey The Lionesses head to Wembley Stadium on Saturday to play Northern Ireland in their first ever competitive match at England’s infamous ground. Saturday’s fixture marks Toone’s second time playing against Northern Ireland over the past year. The first was an event to remember as Toone made her senior debut and etched her name on the scoresheet with the Lionesses for the very first time. This time around, the occasion bears significantly bigger for Toone, as she sets her sights on making her mark at the home of English football in front of fans. “It’s huge. Obviously, I’ve never played at Wembley before, this is my first time, so it’s going to be even more special. The girls have spoken a lot about Wembley and how amazing it is and I just can’t wait to step out on to the pitch in front of all the fans as well.” “That’s what you dream of when you’re younger. Going out to those big stadiums and playing in front of big crowds, so I’m really excited for Saturday. I don’t think I’ll be too nervous because we’re just there to play football at the end of the day, that’s what we do and that’s what we love. So, I’m going to embrace every little moment that I can and enjoy the moment.” Toone is joined by four Manchester United teammates, the largest number of United compatriots to be selected for an England camp. Marc Skinner’s Red Devils have enjoyed a decent start to their season with certain individuals clearly impressing the Lionesses new boss, Sarina Wiegman. Goalkeeper Mary Earps and fellow midfielders, Lucy Staniforth and Katie Zelem are amongst the cut, but Toone shared that she was particularly pleased to have forward Alessia Russo back on board. “She’s my best friend so to have her on camp’s been really nice. She deserves it, she’s had a bit of a tough time over the last year with injuries. But she’s been great, worked really hard and bounced back from it.” Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Toone expressed her eagerness to remain within the senior squad leading up to next year’s Euro’s yet was wise to the importance of consistency at a domestic level. “I know that I just need to keep performing for Manchester United,” noted the 22-year-old, “then hopefully I’ll keep on getting picked for camps and getting more minutes.” However, regarding the immediate future, Toone is looking forward to getting stuck in and soaking up all that Wiegman imparts. “It’s really exciting for the team, and for me as well, that we’ve got Sarina now. We know she’s a great manager and she’s achieved a lot. We just can’t wait to keep playing under her and learning from her. These two games will be massive again and we can’t wait to put on big performances.”