An afternoon at the Emirates ended all square between the top of the table giants Back Match Report WSL: Arsenal v Chelsea An afternoon at the Emirates ended all square between the top of the table giants Edward Payne 16 January 2023 By Paul Donegan Sam Kerr headed in a late equaliser for Chelsea as they drew 1-1 away at London rivals Arsenal on Sunday. Kim Little had given the home side the lead from the penalty spot as the top two in the WSL at the start of the day took on each other at the Emirates Stadium in front of 40,000+ fans. Jonas Eidevall named Arsenal’s new January signings, Victoria Pelova and Kathrine Kuhl, and the returning from loan, Gio, on the bench. There were three changes from their last match which was a 9-1 win against Zurich in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Emma Hayes made one change from Chelsea’s last match, when they beat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the Champions League, with Jessie Fleming coming in for Fran Kirby. There was a good atmosphere inside the Emirates throughout the match. Chelsea were defending the goal the sun was shining towards in the first half. Chelsea’s Lauren James had the first chance in the 6th minute when she went on a powerful run forward which ended with a shot wide. The home sides first effort came four minutes later when Stina Blackstenius played in Lina Hurtig but her shot was saved by Zecira Musovic. Arsenal had another chance a minute later when Caitlin Foord’s shot from an angle was saved. Musovic made another save in the 13th minute to keep out Hurtig’s effort. The Gunners were defending well with Leah Williamson and Rafaelle both making important blocks. Frida Maanum had the hosts next opportunity in the 21st minute but her shot from the edge of the area was saved. Chelsea's Erin Cuthbert. Photo: Edward Payne It was Chelsea’s chance to defend well in the 30th minute when Kadeisha Buchanan headed behind a Lia Walti shot. Hurtig had another effort a minute later but this time she shot into the side netting. Chelsea ended the half well and had a couple of corners around the 38th minute mark, and then with the final action before half time, Kerr headed a corner wide. The first chance of the second half went Arsenal’s way when Hurtig’s headed was saved and then caught by Musovic in the 54th minute. Arsenal were awarded a penalty two minutes later when Foord and Niamh Charles tangled as they went into the area. Referee Emily Heaslip, who was in a good position, gave the spot kick after Foord went down. Little made no mistake from 12-yards to give the home side the lead. The Gunners had a couple of chances to extend their lead over the next ten minutes with Maanum shooting wide and Foord having an effort saved. Chelsea made a couple of substitutions with Eve Perisset and Kirby coming on and at the same time they changed formation to 3-5-2. This led to a period of chances for the away side with Erin Cuthbert seeing a shot deflected wide in the 66th minute, then Magdalena Eriksson saw an effort go over seconds later. James shot over from the edge of the area a minute later. It was all Chelsea now with Kirby putting an effort wide in the 69th minute, then Sophie Ingle sent a powerful shot from 18-yards just wide. Arsenal came close to going further ahead in the 74th minute though when Steph Catley’s cross was tipped onto the crossbar by Musovic just as Blacksteinus was running in at the far post. That was to prove to be the Gunners last real chance of the match as Chelsea had the better of the last 15 minutes. Eriksson saw a header from a free kick saved in the 77th minute, which was the visitors first effort on target of the match. Perisset sent a shot into the side netting in the 88th minute. Arsenal's Steph Catley. Photo: Edward Payne The equaliser for the Blues did come in the 89th minute when second half substitute Jelena Cankovic sent in a superb cross which was powerfully headed into the net by Kerr. The draw leaves Chelsea three points clear of Arsenal and Manchester United though they both have a game in hand on the leaders. Arsenal’s next match is away to Brighton in the WSL next Sunday evening whilst Chelsea take on Liverpool at home earlier in the day. Line ups Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Zinsberger, Wienroither, Williamson, Rafaelle, Catley, Little (c), Walti, Hurtig (McCabe 80’), Maanum, Foord, Blackstenius, Substitutes: D’Angelo, Wubben-Moy, Beattie, Maritz, Gio, Pelova, Kuhl, Iwabuchi Goal – Little 57’ pen Booked – McCabe 88’ Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Musovic, Charles (Perisset 62’), Buchanan, Bright, Eriksson (c) (Rytting Kaneryd 86’), Ingle (Cankovic 80’), Cuthbert, James, Fleming (Kirby 62’), Reiten, Kerr Substitutes: Berger, Carter, Svitkova, Mjelde, Abdullina Goal – Kerr 89’ Booked – James 39’ Referee – Emily Heaslip Tickets sold - 46,881

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.

Arsenal draw 2-2 with Ajaz in first leg of Champions League second round Back Match Report UWCL: Arsenal v Ajax Arsenal draw 2-2 with Ajaz in first leg of Champions League second round Arsenal WFC 22 September 2022 By Paul Donegan Arsenal and Ajax played out a 2-2 draw in the UEFA Women’s Champions League Round 2 1st leg. Ajax took the lead through Romee Leuchter but Stina Blackstenius quickly equalised for Arsenal. The hosts hit the post twice early in the second half before taking the lead when Kim Little scored from the penalty spot. Leuchter scored her second seven minutes from the end to equalise for Ajax. Arsenal had a late goal disallowed for offside. Arsenal made three changes from their starting eleven that had beaten Brighton in the WSL with Steph Catley, Noelle Maritz and Lina Hurtig came in for Katie McCabe, Laura Wienroither and Caitlin Foord. Lia Walti made her 100th appearance for the club. Ajax included three of the Netherlands Euro 2022 squad in their starting line-up. Those being Sherida Spitse, Victoria Pelova and Leuchter. Ajax had the fist chance of the game in the 5th minute when Pelova saw her shot saved by Manuela Zinsberger. Ajax were pressing Arsenal, causing them to make mistakes and passes not finding targets. Ajax were also defending well in the early stages. The visitors had another attempt in the 16th minute but Spitse saw her long range shot easily caught. Ajax did take the lead two minutes later when Chasity Grant sent in a low cross from the right and Leuchter finished from close range. Arsenal had their first chances in the 21st minute but Beth Mead saw her free kick saved and Blackstenius put the rebound wide. The hosts equalised two minutes later. Mead swung in a corner which Rafaelle headed against the crossbar with the rebound falling to Blackstenius who finished. Ajax created the next chance in the 27th minute when Ashleigh Weerden just couldn’t get onto a cross at the far post. Seconds later, Leuchter saw her poked effort saved. The visitors almost caused themselves problems in defence in the 32nd minute but nothing came of it. Arsenal had an opportunity in the 42nd minute but Vivianne Miedema couldn’t get the ball under control and shot wide. Ajax had the final chance of the half when Zinsberger saved Leuchter’s powerful effort from close range. Arsenal came out like a different side after the break, playing some excellent football for the first 15 minutes or so of the second half. Leah Williamson played a lovely ball through to Catley in the 47th minute but she saw her shot hit the post and bounce away. Miedema had the next attempt at goal two minutes later when she cut in but shot wide. Blackstenius saw her low shot from 25-yards saved by Lize Kop. Walti played the ball through to Hurtig but before she could get an effort at goal an Ajax defender got back to put the ball behind for a corner. Maritz dangerous cross was pushed away by Kop. In the 54th minute, Rafaelle cut back and sent a shot against the post. Kop then smothered the ball as Blackstenius tried to go past her. A minute later, Arsenal were awarded a penalty when Mead was fouled in the area. Kim Little stepped up and sent the spot kick low into the net to give The Gunners a deserved lead after their start to the second half. Ajax’s first effort of the half came in the 59th minute but Grant sent a shot high and wide. Arsenal continued to create chances but not at the same rate as earlier in the half. Williamson saw a shot from 35-yards go wide and Mead sent a free kick from the edge of the area over. In the 71st minute, Miedema was unable to control the ball then substitute Foord saw an effort blocked. Some of the passes that had been working for the visitors in the first half, weren’t working in the second. Catley was through for Arsenal in the 75th minute but Kop got to the ball first and blocked. In the 83rd minute, against the run of play of the majority of the second half, Ajax equalised. Tiny Hoekstra skipped past a defender and sent in a low cross that was poorly defended by Arsenal with the ball reaching Leuchter who scored her second from close range. Leuchter attempted a long-range effort four minutes later but it went wide. Arsenal did have the ball in the net again in the 89th minute but McCabe’s powerful shot into the net was disallowed for offside. In injury time, Little run into the box but her effort was blocked. Rafaelle had the final chance of the game but saw her effort go wide after a corner had been headed on. Ajax looked the happier side with the result as the final whistle went. The second leg takes place in Amsterdam next Wednesday. Before that, Arsenal take on Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday for which over 50,000 tickets have been sold! Line ups Arsenal: Zinsberger, Maritz, Williamson, Rafaelle, Catley, Walti, Little, Miedema, Mead, Blackstenius (McCabe 74’), Hurtig (Foord 58’) Unused substitutes : Marckese, Wubben-Moy, Beattie, Noobs, Maanum, Wienroither, Agyemang, Earl, Reid Goals – Blackstenius 23’, Little (pen) 57’ Ajax: Kop, Van der Most, Kardinaal, Doorn, Verhoeve, Noordam, Spitse, Pelova, Grant (Bakker 90’+2’), Leuchter, Weerden (Hoekstra 62’) Unused substitutes: Bussman, Van der Wal, Munsterman, Tromp, Kruize, Keijzer, Van Gool, Sabajo Goals – Leuchter 18’, 83’ Booked – Verhoeve 56’, Van der Moost 64’, Doorn 69’ Referee – Frida Nielsen (Denmark) Attendance – 2,550

England boss Sarina Wigeman has named a 23-player squad to round off the final international break of the year. Lionesses: November Camp Back England boss Sarina Wigeman has named a 23-player squad to round off the final international break of the year. Girls on the Ball Saturday, 20 November 2021 By Charlotte Stacey The Lionesses will take on Austria and Latvia at home as part of their 2023 World Cup Qualifying campaign. Currently, England sit at the top of Group D with 12 points and a goal difference of 32, having won all four of their group games so far. Interim captain Leah Williamson is unavailable after picking up a “significant hamstring” injury in the North London derby last week. With usual captain Steph Houghton out and Lucy Bronze still absent, Wiegman will make the decision to name another captain for these upcoming games. Manchester City’s Ellen White and Alex Greenwood may be chosen to lead the team, as could Chelsea’s Millie Bright. Keira Walsh may also be in contention, offering vision, composure and maturing leadership. Arsenal’s Jordan Nobbs comes into the squad after a lengthy spell away from the national side. The midfielder missed out on both the 2019 World Cup due to injury and this year’s Olympics as part of Team GB. Nobbs is a seasoned player, both domestically and internationally, and will offer another creative bite to England’s attack. In-form tyrants Lauren Hemp and Beth Mead retain their places, as do Manchester United's dynamic duo Ella Toone and Alessia Russo. Lucy Staniforth has will not be a part of November’s camp after two consecutive call ups. Wiegman states Staniforth’s lack of minutes with domestic club Manchester United as the main reason for this. The rest of Wiegman’s squad remains unchanged from the Lionesses last camp in October. The Lionesses will take on Austria at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light at 12:30pm (GMT) on Saturday 27th November. They will then face Latvia at Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium at 7pm (GMT) on Tuesday 30th November. ____ GK: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Hannah Hampton (Aston Villa), Sandy MacIver (Everton) DF: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Demi Stokes (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal) MF: Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Jill Scott (Manchester City), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Katie Zelem (Manchester United) FW: Bethany England (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Nikita Parris (Arsenal), Alessia Russo (Manchester United), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Ellen White (Manchester City)

Thoughts On: Alessia Russo Thoughts On: Alessia Russo Russo Back 21 May 2022 By Charlotte Stacey Alessia Russo: Superstar in the Making Naomi Baker As the 2022 WSL season finishes, Manchester United forward Alessia Russo must be celebrated as having played a noteworthy term of football. Russo joined United in September 2020, immediately hammering home her mark by registering three goals and one assist in just three appearances. For her efforts, Russo was named as the WSL’s Player of the Month a few weeks later in October. An unfortunate hamstring injury last November meant that Russo’s promising first season in red was cruelly cut short, however since returning she has most certainly made up for lost time. Prior to joining the Red Devils, Russo had top-flight experience with Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion. Charlton Athletic was where it all began for Russo as a youngster before she moved on to Chelsea’s development squad, making her senior debut in 2016. After a single game with the Blues, Russo joined a newly promoted Brighton, where she made history scoring the Seagulls' first goal in the top division. With a short but successful stint with Brighton under her belt, Russo moved across the pond to play college football joining ACC side Carolina Tar Heels. Whilst in the States Russo further developed the skills that would later attract the likes of Manchester United. In her first season abroad, Russo netted nine goals and earned two assists in 19 appearances, before becoming the first Tar Heel to be awarded a United Soccer Coaches first-team All-America selection since 2013. To put Russo’s credibility into perspective, she achieved this selection whilst suffering from a broken leg. Due to the uncertainty of the pandemic Russo returned home, cutting her final year of college short and signed with United just a few weeks later. Over the course of this season, Russo has stood out as one of the league’s most capable forwards. Having played in both a number nine role and as a winger, as part of Marc Skinner’s rotational preference, Russo has been able to hone qualities that will secure her as an asset across any stretch of the forward line. In fact, Russo ends the campaign within the top ten for the number of goals scored, shots made, shots on target, goal creating actions, progressive passes and assists registered. Graphic: Charlotte Stacey // Photo: Clive Brunskill When noting Russo’s play, it becomes simpler to see how she has achieved such prolificity in such a short space of time. Russo is progressive, aggressive and deceptively quick. She will put pedal to the metal when an opening presents itself with the scope to instantly put a defender or goalkeeper under pressure. Notably, Russo is a player that will also track and close opponents down; she is a constant in United’s press, meaning she is as important to her side’s defence as she is their attack. Russo is adept at drawing in opponents, with the ball and without, to open up passages for teammates. This causes her to be a significant figure in United’s creative play. Whilst she may not be the most instinctively ‘creative’ player herself, Russo has enough awareness to occupy attention which affords her the opportunity to feed line breaking passes. This eye to pick out a pass also lends itself nicely to Russo’s wide role, allowing her to send in accurate crosses to attackers in the box. However, even when playing as a winger, Russo has a tendency to cut inside and make her runs through the middle when in possession. These central lanes are the spaces Russo naturally gravitates to, and as such, are the spaces she ultimately thrives in. This is potentially a key reason as to why Russo has now become a regular squad member in Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses. As ‘more senior’ players begin phase out over the next few years, Russo is an obvious choice to eventually take up England’s number nine role. As a focal point, Russo has a presence, a physicality to contest one-on-one, and the height to make the most of aerial opportunities. Being unmistakably difficult to stop in front of goal, Russo sells a lucrative centre forward package, and when considering England’s flanks are employed by Lauren Hemp, Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly, an Alessia Russo centrepiece makes for a rather pleasing frontline. Having surely avowed her status as one of the leagues, and indeed the country’s, most exciting attacking prospects, Russo will undoubtedly continue to gather the attention of the masses. However, the most encouraging part of Russo’s future is that she has barely scratched the surface, and that is certainly something to look forward to.

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Thoughts on: Rachel Daly Thoughts on: Rachel Daly Daly Back 13 September 2020 By Charlotte Stacey Jack of All via Getty Images With only limited sports restarting due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the NWSL Challenge Cup has been a tonic for fans of women’s football. Although many players have stood out, there has perhaps been one that has particularly caught the eye. Houston Dash and England powerhouse, Rachel Daly, has been the talk of the tournament, and has finally been able to show her supporters on both sides of the pond what she is really made of. Rachel Daly is about as versatile as they come. Typically positioned as a fullback for England, but a forward for the Dash, she can play at the front, back and everywhere in between. Her adaptability often alluding to the fact that Daly could, quite comfortably, occupy any of the ten outfield positions on the pitch. And frankly, if her goal line clearances are anything to go by, she would most likely have a good old go with the gloves on as well. Whether she is attacking the goal or defending it, she is a player that will keep you on your toes. Defensively, Daly is willing to do the dirty work. She will go toe to toe putting the pressure on, almost wrestling to win the ball until the very bitter end. Yet where Daly is adept in holding a back line, her yearning to press forward is always apparent. In fact, it is when she is on the attack that she really comes alive. As a striker she is gutsy, yet composed. Assured, yet unpretentious. Selfish when she needs to be, but unselfish for the good of the team. A defensive mistake? She will pounce on it. Unmarked space? She will exploit it. A shot on goal? She will score it. Putting it quite simply, Daly harbours all the attributes of a rather proficient forward player, and it is a crying shame she has not been able to exercise these with the national team more often. Rachel Daly But whilst she has perhaps been underutilised for her country, she is absolutely a vital piece of the puzzle for the Dash. With a tireless work ethic, a sedulousness that seldom falters and a lengthy personal history with the club, Daly lies at the very heart of the Houston Dash. It is fitting therefore, that she now wears the armband as one of Houston’s captains. And my, doesn’t she wear it well. Daly’s play has seemingly elevated since taking on the captaincy. Her impassioned leadership another string to add to her bow. She does not however, just draw command from her teammates. As a spectator, it is difficult to resist the charms of Captain Daly. Whether she starts a match or is substituted on, she makes an impression. With no time to sit and stare, Daly’s game is quick, and she brings an instinctive urgency to get things moving. She possesses a pace that is somewhat nightmarish, often appearing to be everywhere all at once. Speed, of course, is advantageous, yet it is of little use without a certain timing acumen. Daly here, is skilled. She is able to time her runs to perfection and habitually finishes them off with accuracy. Yet, she is capable in assisting others. With an eye to spot a goalscoring opportunity, Daly will knock out a cross, a through ball or a square pass effortlessly. Likewise, this is seen in her taking of set pieces, of which she delivers with a pinpoint precision. On and off the pitch, Daly is a risktaker; she has gone against the grain. But she has done so with a moral mindset and a true self-belief that have led to both individual and collective successes. After her recent performance in the Challenge Cup, what is clear is that Daly has not yet had her day with the Lionesses. But with managerial changes on the horizon, and a hoard of international tournaments on their way, her time is surely just around the corner. With a fully rounded skillset and a passion that radiates; world, you best take note of Rachel Daly. Our Lioness to flaunt, all Daly long.

Thoughts on: Kim Little Thoughts on: Kim Little Little Back 14 August 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Captain Little Edward Payne Arsenal captain and Scotland international Kim Little boasts an envious anthology filled with acclaimed testimonials, statistics and accomplishments that affirm her as one of the greats. Recently standing out as one of Team GB’s most notable figures at the Olympic games, she asserted once again that although she may be Little by name, her presence on the field is anything but. Blazing out of the blocks aged sixteen, Little’s professional career began in 2006 in her native Scotland at, the then named Hibernian Ladies, competing in the Scottish Women’s Premier League. At an almost two to one ratio Little netted 88 goals in 48 appearances in her two years with the club, showcasing a raw and undisputed talent. Unsurprisingly, interest in Little soon picked up and she joined North London giants Arsenal in 2008 where she remained until 2013. During this time, Little etched her name into league history with five consecutive prolific seasons, notching up 81 goals in 94 appearances for the gunners. She then moved across the pond, following former Arsenal coach Laura Harvey to the National Women’s Soccer League to join Seattle Reign (now known as OL Reign) in 2014. Little’s impression in America was as remarkable as expected and she finished her first season in the States with the Golden Boot award, as well as being voted the league’s Most Valuable Player. In 2015 Little moved on loan to Melbourne City and racked up another 9 goals in 12 appearances before settling on a return to the Women’s Super League. The formidable Scot arrived at The Arsenal afresh in 2017 and has since taken her tally to over 135 goals and over 200 appearances in red and white. Internationally, Little’s career is no less illustrious. Similarly to her domestic pathway Little also made her senior debut for Scotland in 2006. So far, she has appeared 140 times for Scotland and has potted 59 goals. Little has twice been selected to represent Great Britain at the Olympics and the curtain on her run on the world stage does not show signs of falling any time soon. Of course, a player of such calibre has rightly earned themself a fair amount of silverware. In amongst Little’s treasures nest no less than twenty-two titles, including the treble with The Arsenal. Little also has the individual honours of being the very first inductee to the PFA Women’s Player’s Player of the Year in 2013, being named FA Women’s Player of the Year in 2010 and winning BBC Footballer of the Year in 2016. Edward Payne and Charlotte Stacey When considering a goalscoring record of over 250 domestic goals and 59 international goals, it becomes an outlandish notion to remind ourselves that Kim Little is a midfielder, not a forward. Yet the preposterous truly manifests upon realising that of all her attributes, Little’s ability to score ranks rather low on the pecking order. In an offensive midfielder it is customary to expect a certain level of creativity to feed the forward line and initiative in actively participating in build-up play. In particular, the role of the number 10 requires a technical head with a degree of clever judgement to find space and to fill voids with sharp passing intricacies. Upon examining Little’s game, it quickly becomes clear that she does not merely occupy each of these skills, she masters them. In fact, what Little possesses is more than innate vision, it is more than ingenuity, it is artistry. As a painter embellishes their canvas, Little enriches the field with every stroke of play. Every touch is handled with reverence, every dribble laced with finesse. Whether it is the purposeful drawing of defenders to appease up field congestion, a calculated cutback to defy a marker, an impeccable through ball, or a driven run into space to fire a 25-yard volley, Little meticulously details the pitch whilst retaining a signature originality. However, sophistication on the ball can fall almost meaningless if the match as a whole is not thoughtfully governed. Thankfully Little’s game management is exemplary. Wise to the ebbs and flows a match can take, Little is able to adapt her approach to suit the system each game requires. Simply being observant to both opposing and allied dynamics whilst on the pitch is a skill within itself, and certainly not one that is grasped lightly. Yet herein lies Little’s greatest quality - awareness. It is not a surface awareness of what might happen around her, it is a profound knowledge of each individual representing her team. Their strengths, their weaknesses, their habits and typical movements. An awareness that is not simply born from practice, but rather constructed from conscious and committed study. Having accumulated such a rich familiarity, Little is able to pull the strings as the ultimate puppeteer. Justly wearing the captain’s armband, it must be noted that Little is not the most vocal of leaders. There is simple reason for this, she does not need to be. ‘Leading by example’ is a phrase that can be thrown around without too much care for substance, however here it is really the only expression that should be used. With utter professionalism, poise and calmness, Little lets her feet do the talking. Knowing which battles to pick, she is careful to dispute official calls unnecessarily, nor does she allow frustration to overtake. Further to this, in times when the collective is rattled it is Little who keeps her foot on the pedal, Little who pulls through sloppy spells, Little who has the patience to claw back a spiralling phase. She is the linchpin, the very beating heart. Unfortunately, and quite unforgivably, when a player is at the top of their game, and remains there for so long, observers can almost become ignorant to the fact. The exquisite form borders on expected and the eye forgets to appreciate, blind to the spectacle it is beholding. However, one simply must not fall complacent to the effortlessly class act of Kim Little, for there may never be another quite as extraordinary.

A quick guide to Blackburn Rovers who compete in the Women's Championship. Blackburn Rovers Website https://www.rovers.co.uk/teams/ladies/ Manager Gemma Donnelly - ENG Captain Saffron Jordan Squad Blackburn Rovers Blackburn Rovers 1/1 Number Player Position Nationality 1 Alex Brooks GK ENG 2 Niamh Murphy DF ENG 3 Hannah Coan DF ENG 4 Tyler Toland MF IRL 6 Jade Richards DF ENG 7 Farah Crompton FW ENG 8 Emma Doyle MF ENG 10 Chloe Williams MF WAL 11 Megan Hornby FW ENG 12 Emma Taylor DF ENG 14 Lucy Shepherd FW WAL 15 Hannah Silcock DF ENG 17 Millie Chandarana MF ENG 19 Evie Smith DF ENG 21 Lauren Thomas FW WAL 22 Milly Robertson DF ENG 23 Georgia Walters FW WAL 25 Nicola Worthington MF ENG 29 Faith Nokuthula MF ENG 29 Faith Nokuthula MF RSA 99 Shanell Salgado GK GER Ground Sir Tom Finney Stadium, Bamber Bridge, PR5 6UX

Jill Scott MBE The Woman. The Myth. The Legend. Legendary Lionesses: Jill Scott MBE Scott J Back 13 September 2020 By Charlotte Stacey The Woman. The Myth. The Legend. via Getty Images When it comes to icons of the women's game, Jill Scott should be a name that immediately comes to mind. Boasting a prolific career for both club and country, the Manchester City and England midfielder is nothing but deserving of her recent appointment as a Member of the British Empire. Jill Scott is a true veteran of the game. With 146 caps for England and counting, and over 200 collective appearances for the three domestic clubs she has represented, Scott is certainly a familiar face on a football field. It is her experience, alongside her clear respect for the game, and of all those involved in it, that has naturally elevated her to become somewhat of a mentor for upcoming players. Scott's deep rooted receptiveness does much to dispel any unease felt by those less familiar with the pressures of the game . With a buoyant energy that is seemingly endless, Scott has an endurance that rivals that of a player ten years her junior. Her maturity, along with her exceptional vision, enables her to quite comfortably control play from the middle. Pairing the finest of attitudes together with an unparalleled work ethic, Scott encompasses everything that is needed in a world class midfielder. Whilst her skill set sees her principally positioned in the middle, Scott is a threat at both ends of the field. Her absolute strength in dispossessing others, and assertiveness in retrieving a lost ball, shows her utter commitment to her defence. Scott is spirited, and although this can occasionally spell trouble, it is this passion that has kept her at the forefront of the game for so long. Likewise, in attacking, Scott is more than proficient. Scott is clever in making judicious runs off the ball, and in producing stellar passes when on it. Her aptitude to create, and finish, chances in the most crucial of times demonstrates a player with a well rounded acumen needed in pulling a team together in a crisis. Reuters Scott is always attentive to those around her under every circumstance. Off the pitch, she is widely regarded as 'the nicest player you will ever meet'. With a warm personality and friendly demeanour that is seen in every interview, it is easy to see why she is a firm favourite amongst players and fans alike. Her soccer schools are just one example of her consideration to, not only the development of the sport, but to the next generation. What is clearly evident, is that Scott harbours the generosity, integrity and kindness of a truly special individual. There is absolutely no doubt that Scott is worthy of every trophy, title and honour that she has won, and every accolade that may come her way in the future. Jill Scott is, and will always be, an essential part of the Lionesses and the FA's history. Her sincere dedication to her sport, and to the wider community, is second to none; and it is this devotion to give something back that means she stands, quite literally, head and shoulders above the rest. Luckily for us, she shows no signs of stopping yet.

A cruising 4-0 victory over Korea England sees England thrill at Stadium MK England earn comfortable win in Arnold Clark Cup opener Back A cruising 4-0 victory over Korea England sees England thrill at Stadium MK Getty Friday, 17 February 2023 By Charlotte Stacey It was a welcome homecoming in Milton Keynes for Leah Williamson as the Lionesses comfortably beat Korea Republic in their first match of the Arnold Clark Cup. Tributes were paid before kick-off with England donning black armbands in ongoing support of the aftermath of the earthquake suffered in Syria and Turkish, and in memory of the late June Mead who sadly passed away last month. Lucy Bronze was also honoured as England’s latest centurion with a commemorative shirt and flowers handed over by manager Sarina Wiegman. Wiegman opted for her preferred 4-3-3 with Millie Bright and Jess Carter pairing in central defence. These were flanked by Lucy Bronze on the right and Alex Greenwood who spent the evening revisiting her leftback roots. Captain Leah Williamson was stationed at the base of the midfield for the first half, in a single pivot, in the absence of Keira Walsh. Ella Toone and Georgia Stanway started as England’s two attacking midfielders with Stanway dropping slightly further back, loosely occupying more of an no.8 role when needed. Alessia Russo lead the line as the central striker with Chloe Kelly and Lauren James in support along the wings, Lauren Hemp started this one on the bench. The first half was largely in England’s hands. They did pretty much everything for the first forty minutes, (including hitting the post) apart from score. Stanway did eventually find the back of the net after James was tussled down in the box and earned the home side a penalty. The trouble in breaking through was less to do with England’s movement or shape, and more to do with the low block and compact structure of Korea Republic. The visitors maintained organisation in the first half and largely played the defensive game, typically leaving lone striker Son Hwayeon further upfied to hit transitions. England’s best option to create space was to thread balls through Toone and Stanway and then feed out to the wings. Here, Kelly and James, supported by Bronze and Greenwood, did well to overlap - but with a slack aggression in the first half. Where Korea Republic played with five at the back, these tight areas quickly became flooded with bodies and England’s attacks in these instances were flushed out. Throughout the first forty-five minutes it became clear that the ball needed to be moved across the pitch and with quicker succession. Korea Republic were concentrated in creating heavy traffic in front of the ball (on the wing in play and in central areas), meaning they left a lot of space on the opposite side. Releasing the ball and switching play ‘cross-field’ a little faster would have stretched the Korean side out. England also needed to hit the ground running with this space and progress with a heightened intent. Wiegman did note this in her post-match press conference and raised her concern that the quality of the pitch may have interfered with the speed in which England were able to play the ball. Becoming more aggressive in the wider areas is exactly how the Lionesses began the second half. They increased pressure by challenging more assertively using speed and physicality on the wings, and carried the ball with more urgency. This change of pace did the trick and Kelly scored within 30 seconds of the game being restarted from the left-hand side. Russo netted the next one five minutes later with principal ball again coming from the left wing. Greenwood whipped a cross through close to goalkeeper and Russo finished it off by flicking it in behind. Korea Republic noticeably began to tire at around 70 minutes and, despite substitutions, an increasing number of gaps began to open up. This allowed the Lionesses to then become more direct and siphon their pressure more centrally. This then opened up more options for England who were now able to create numerical advantages, through sheer pace, out wide and in the middle. It was James who scored England’s fourth and final goal of the evening after linking up with right-sided compatriot Bronze. The duo, in-sync with their signature moves, combined well to cut in and drive through the middle and player of the match James sank Bronze’s assist past the keeper. All in all, it was another good day for Wiegman’s side, who remain unbeaten since her appointment almost 18 months ago. The England manager praised her team’s togetherness and their desire to win games. Wiegman also suggested she was pleased to be able to “try a few different things” , alluding to Williamson’s switch in position from midfield to central defence at half time, Katie Zelem’s run as a solo defensive midfielder, and Rachel Daly’s time to come on and play as a no.9 whilst Greenwood earned minutes as a left-sided fullback. Plenty of substitutions were made throughout the match with Niamh Charles and Katie Robinson also getting a run out. Wiegman indicated that substantial rotation is planned and there will be changes to come over the course of the Arnold Clark Cup as it is “good preparation for the World Cup.” The Lionesses will face Italy on Sunday 19th February at 3:15pm (GMT) in Coventry. The match will be shown live on ITV1 with coverage beginning at 2:25pm. Line-Ups England (4-3-3) : Earps (GK), Bronze, Greenwood (63’), Bright, Williamson (c), Kelly (63’), Stanway (67’), Russo (63’), Toone, Carter (45’), James (80’) Substitutes: MacIver, (GK), Roebuck (GK), Ramsey (GK), Hemp (63’), Daly (63’), Park, Salmon, Zelem (45’), Charles (63’), Robinson (80’), Wubben-Moy, Le Tissier, Nobbs, Coombs (67’) Goals: Stanway 40’, Kelly 46’, Russo 50’, James (78’) Korea Republic (5-4-1): Kim Jungmi (GK), Hong Hyeji, Lim Seonjoo, Kim Hyeri, Jang Selgi (86’), Choo Hyojoo, Choe Yuri, Lee Geuminn, Kim Yunji (56’), Kang Chaerim (56’), Son Hwayeon (86’) Substitutes: Y G Yoon, J S Ryu, S Y Shim (56’), H Y Kim, C Jang, G R Chun (86’), E Y lee, E S Park, Y B Jang (86’), S Y Ji, K H Kim, M J Ko, J M Lee, Y B Bae, Y E Park (56’) Booked: Son Hwayeon, S G Gang, Y G Yoon Attendance – 21, 013