Australia put on cohesive display to beat highly-ranked England 2-0 ahead of the World Cup Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses taste first defeat as their 30-game unbeaten run comes to an end Back Australia put on cohesive display to beat highly-ranked England 2-0 ahead of the World Cup Lionesses Tuesday, 11 April 2023 By Charlotte Stacey Sam Kerr was the was the first to hit the net after some poor decision making from England captain Leah Williamson allowed the Australian marvel to lob the loose ball over the top of a somewhat late on-rushing Mary Earps. Williamson’s individual slip-up, whilst she will no doubt be disappointed, was not the sole reason the European Champions went on to lose. Across this international break, bar a passable first half against Brazil in the Finalissima, England have simply looked out of sorts. There has been plenty of change within the England squad since their historic win of last July. A mix of injuries, retirements, and the introduction of younger talent, has meant that the Lionesses of April 2023 are a different side to that of July 2022, such is the tide of international football. Amongst this rotation however, prior to last night, the Lionesses had not lost a game since September 2021 and had not conceded more than one goal per game. Such an illustrious run of form is remarkable, there is no denying that. It is an achievement few can tie their name too, one that has drawn the attention of the masses and has ranked England as a favourite for the upcoming World Cup - the only trouble is, it cannot last forever. Hidden have been the cracks that are compromising the foundation. In fact, so delicate had some of these joints become, all it took was a little pressure to send them tumbling. England’s left side, for some time now, has been a weak area. Manchester City’s Demi Stokes was the Lionesses last 'trade' left sided fullback, yet striker Rachel Daly was favoured by Wiegman to take on the role. Since Ellen White’s retirement, Daly has played upfront meaning the fullback role is essentially up for grabs. For the last two matches Chelsea’s Jess Carter has occupied the position - and it must be noted, Carter played it very well - but it is an area that is consistently targeted by oppositions. Wiegman’s selection for this camp (and previous camps) does not contain a defender that regularly plays as a leftback. Left-footed Alex Greenwood would perhaps be favoured by supporters, however has been stationed as a centre half domestically now for quite some time. Everton’s Gabby George, Aston Villa’s Maz Pacheco, or even Manchester United’s Hannah Blundell, all regular fullbacks for their respective clubs, perhaps could have been called-up to gain further international experience, but it seems Wiegman is content with her choice of ad-hoc fullbacks for now. Just as pressing as the fullback conundrum is that of the centre-back pairing. The is a strong argument to be had that the most notable absence in the Lionesses camp of late is that of Millie Bright. Without the Chelsea leader, England just feel that little bit more exposed. The Bright-Williamson pairing works largely because each is able to execute their skillset whilst relying on the other to cover the weaker elements of their game. Williamson is a progressor, Bright is a holder. Williamson thrives with a more physical presence protecting the space left behind as she steps out, which is why Lotte Wubben-Moy or Jess Carter might have been a more favourable choice for this particular meeting with Sam Kerr. Where Australia and indeed Brazil offered pressure upfront, England offered very little in the way of creativity or clear-cut chances despite having the majority of possession on both occasions. Part of this is down to oppositions clamping down on midfield marvel Keira Walsh and nullifying her passing options as well as limiting her time on the ball. Yet the issue also lies further upfield. England have plenty of the ball, their passing network is an image of beauty, and typically, they are able to advance into superior positions, yet little is done when it comes to finding that final product. A definitive lack of creativity has crept upon the Lionesses as writers block renders an author wordless. The deliveries are good, the positioning is good, but missing is that little piece of innovation that will open the door. Ella Toone has done a decent job of finding her feet in the number 10 role and demonstrates a growing influence in build-up play. However, although Toone and fellow Manchester United teammate Alessia Russo start together for club, when the duo line-up for country the workings do not seem to have quite the same effect. The question could be posed as to whether Alessia Russo’s impact is more significant as an “end of game” player as opposed to a starter. Further to this, with the leftback position still an ominous one, and the very real prospect of Daly settling back there at any given moment, England could do with a traditional off-the-shoulder box-roamer, much like that of Spurs striker Bethany England. It is a tall order to reach 30 games unbeaten and an even taller one to even contemplate carrying this through another major tournament. A loss at this moment might seem cruel, might hurt the players it has pulled the rug from under, but it is, in actuality, a blessing in disguise. Losing is not the end, quite the opposite - it is the beginning. Wiegman will not make wholesale squad changes ahead of the World Cup, nor does she need to. Right now, England's cards are laid bare and pinpointed have been the improvements that need to be made, the relationships that need to be strengthened and the tactical nuances that need tweaking. This defeat must be viewed as a gift that arrived at precisely the right time, and nothing else.

Ground Guide Chelsea By Paul Donegan This guide is based on two visits to Kingsmeadow to watch Chelsea play Brighton on Saturday 2nd October and Wolfsburg on Wednesday 6th October 2021. As normal with these guides, things might be different from this if you decide to visit Kingsmeadow to watch a match. Also, I have never sat at the north end (maybe will need to do that at some point and then update this) so not sure what facilities are available there once you go through the turnstiles. Address Kingsmeadow, Kingston Rd, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 3PB Location and Ground History Kingsmeadow is located in Kingston upon Thames in South West London. The River Thames flows through the town and the main A3 road passes close by. Kingsmeadow opened in 1989 as the new home for non-league side Kingstonian. AFC Wimbledon started sharing the ground with them when they were formed in 2002 and took ownership of the ground a year later. Chelsea purchased the ground in 2016/17 with the women’s side playing there since 2017 (Kingstonian moved out at this point) and youth sides joining them in 2020 after AFC Wimbledon moved to their new stadium. The two ends were built and the main stand extended during AFC Wimbledon’s time there and the ground has had a slight redevelopment (new food kiosk, bar entrance, ticket office) since Chelsea became the only side to play there. Getting There The closest station is Norbiton which is about a 15 minute walk from the ground. Trains go there from Waterloo station in London via Vauxhall, Clapham Junction and Wimbledon. Going the other way they pass through Kingston and either go to Shepperton or back to Waterloo a longer way via Twickenham and Richmond. Surbiton, Kingston and New Malden stations are also close by. The 131 bus goes along Kingston Road which runs past the ground and these buses go to Kingston one way and to Raynes Park, Wimbledon and Tooting the other. Kingston town centre is about a 20/25 minute walk from the ground. There is a car park at the ground and parking is free until it is full then it would probably have to be street parking. Tickets For both the matches I went to, I bought tickets online and printed the attached ticket on the email off (got these a few hours/days after booking the tickets and getting confirmation email). For the Brighton match, I only had the option of standing tickets at the south end which cost £9 but for the Wolfsburg match, I also had the option of seats in the west and north stands as well and these cost £10. There is a ticket office at the ground (located on the corner of the west and north stands, next to the merchandise kiosk) which opens 90 minutes before kick off. You can buy tickets on the day from there if they are available and the person I spoke to there said they are the same prices as above. The stadium is cashless so need to pay by card for tickets, food/drink, programme etc. Buy Tickets https://www.chelseafc.com/en/tickets---membership/buy-tickets?pageTab=WOMEN%27S%20FIXTURES The Stadium The north and west stands at Kingsmeadow are covered seated stands whilst the south end is a covered terrace. The east side of the ground is also a terrace and covered for most of its length but this side isn’t normally open. The east side has the camera gantry on top of it, the dugouts in front and there is also a scoreboard on this side. There are some places for disabled people in the south west corner near the entrance. The capacity of the ground is 4,850. The turnstiles for the north end are in front of you as you approach the ground whilst the turnstiles for the other 3 stands are at the far end of the main stand/car park. They open 90 minutes before kick off. When I went, I had to show proof I was double vaccinated or had a negative Covid test and think this is a requirement for everyone to prove at the moment before entering the ground. There is also a quick bag search before going in (had to give in the lid from my plastic water bottle for the Wolfsburg match but not the Brighton one). For the west and south stands, there are toilets between these stands near the turnstiles. Food and Drink There are two food kiosks available for the west and south stands. One is at the end of the south stand in the corner with the east side (not open for the Wolfsburg match) and the other is near the entrance/toilets between the south and west stands. The south west area of the ground can get a bit congested with queues for the food kiosk and toilets. See pictures below for what is available to eat/drink and prices. There is an entrance into the bar between the food kiosk and the west stand. Outside of the ground, there are a few takeaways/shops along Kingston Road but if you want pubs/restaurants then Kingston town centre is probably the best place to go. Merchandise As you approach the ground, between the north stand turnstile and the ticket office, there is a merchandise kiosk where you can buy shirts, scarfs, hats, pens, key rings and much more. A programme is available to buy on the day and these were being sold from near the turnstiles to the south and west stands for the Brighton match and on the approach to the ground, near the north stand turnstiles, for the Wolfsburg match.

Fara Williams MBE Williams: 20 years and counting Legendary Lionesses: Fara Williams Williams Back 3 June 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Williams: 20 years and counting Matthew Lewis England centurion and true pioneer of women’s football Fara Williams has played her last game of professional football, closing the book on her illustrious 20-year pitch side career. You would not have to delve far into the world of women’s football before the name Fara Williams would crop up. The 37-year-old has been a staple figure of the game long before the audiences, sponsorships and broadcasting deals of today caught up. Career flutterings began at the age of twelve with Chelsea, the team she grew up supporting. Williams impressed at the Blues’ trials despite arriving hours late due to a calamity with bus numbers. From there, professionally, things began to pick up. Williams remained at Chelsea until 2001, playing for the first team for one year before she signed for Charlton Athletic. At the time Charlton was a big player in the women’s league, well regarded as one of the most fruitful teams to play for. Williams completed a three-year spell with the Addicks, yet missed out on their eventual consecutive FA Cup victories after making the move to Everton, under coach Mo Marley, in 2004. As with her previous stints, Williams’ time with the Toffees was another tale of brilliance. Very quickly Williams certified herself an essential figure within the squad as confirmed when she was voted as FA Players' Player of the Year in 2009. She also finally managed to chase down that illusive FA Cup whilst at Everton in 2010. From there Williams hopped over to Merseyside adversary Liverpool. A flagship signing for the club and their bid to rival North London titans Arsenal’s supremacy. Indeed, not only did Liverpool rival the Gunners, they reigned victorious, winning back-to-back league titles in 2013 and 2014. Success was short lived however as the Reds tumbled to the bottom of the table and Williams herself was out with injury. Moving once again, Williams spent one season with The Arsenal before concluding her story with a four-year term at Reading. The enduring case of Fara Williams was as impressive internationally as it was domestically. The midfielder remained sought after from the moment she wore her first senior England shirt aged 17. Williams would then go on to become England’s most capped player of all time. Not women’s player. Just player. She has racked up a total of 172 caps for her country; she has represented Team GB in the Olympics; she has played in four European Championships and three World Cups. Unfortunately, Williams did not make the cut in the Lionesses’ World Cup campaign before her retirement in what will persist as a controversial judgement by England’s then head coach. Girls on the Ball & Charlotte Stacey When pouring over these achievements one could be rather easily fooled into believing that for Williams it came easy. Yet this could not be further from the truth. Whilst she quite clearly exuded an effortlessly raw footballing talent, life outside of the touchlines was far from easy. Unbeknownst her teammates and coaches, for six years throughout early part of her career, Williams was homeless. Family disagreements and self-confessed ‘stubbornness’ led to Williams’ prolonged period living in and out of hostels. With little physical, emotional or psychological security back then, Williams now openly contemplates this time. Speaking to Oliver Brown at The Telegraph, she reflects, “I probably ended up homeless a little longer than I needed to. When I was first in a hostel, I used to share a room with three other females. My belongings would get stolen, my clothes. That was what troubled me the most. I never had any friendships or relationships there. Inside, I had to remain strong.” It is this inner strength and resolute determination that propelled Williams to such magnitude on the field. It can be rare to find an athlete of profound talent that with the hunger to tune their gift with such fortitude. It is even rarer to find that elevates so finely with age. Williams cites former England coach and current Brighton and Hove coach Hope Powell, and former Everton and England U-21 coach Marley, as two of her greatest influences both professionally and personally. For it was Powell who eventually learned of Williams’ struggles outside of training. Powell who bought her bedding and drove her to a homeless unit in London that night. Setbacks and injuries are part and parcel of an athlete’s course and Williams was no exception to this. After niggling injuries throughout her career, her most concerning medical complaint came very late on. A few months prior to announcing her retirement, Williams revealed that she had been diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome, a kidney condition that is treated with steroids. The medication Williams was taking resulted in a number of distressing side effects that partly led to her to take the decision to bow out gracefully. As her rather fitting game final game against her beloved Chelsea was upon us, we were served with the opportunity to savour a last glimpse of a twenty-year honed creation. To reflect on a personal evolution that has steadily budded over the years. By her own admission, Williams progressed from “a dribbling creator” to a “creative passer” (Sarah Shephard, The Athletic) alluding to the rawness that was exorcised and the finesse that was expected. Yet here Williams sells herself short. The footballer that stands before us is far more than a creative passer. Williams is intuitively tactical, expertly navigational and a deadly set piece taker. But further than this is her first-hand experience of the sport. Williams has lived through the gradual growth of the women’s game; she has remained an integral figure when leagues and clubs have been uprooted, restructured and reinvented. And as this continues to mature, despite her retirement, it is likely that Williams will remain as such. With media opportunities now broadening, Williams has expressed interest in trying her hand with punditry or commentary. Williams has called for more truthful critiques of the women’s game, specifically with the national team, who, many would agree, are still not up to par. With an honest mentality and personal knowledge of the game, Williams would certainly bring a refreshingly candid take. Yet, an ambition that sits slightly closer is coaching, a role Williams has always seen herself taking on. As she hangs up her boots Williams can proudly look over a job well done and take some deserved time away from the pitch. However, with her proven track record, reciprocal loyalty to football and trademark headstrong approach, one can bet, she won’t be away for too long.

Stevenage earn a 2-1 win over Luton Town to send them to the top of the table in hard-fought match Back Match Report Stevenage v Luton Town Stevenage earn a 2-1 win over Luton Town to send them to the top of the table in hard-fought match Edward Payne 7 February 2023 By Barry Rust Stevenage FCW returned to the top of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Premier Division with a superb last minute winner against Luton Town. Their opponents have occupied the top spot for most of the season so far and have just one defeat to their name – to FA WNL team – Ipswich Town. That though, was a cup game. Here at the Herts FA County Ground, Stevenage inflicted the first league loss of the campaign so far. The first half saw both sides testing the waters without causing either defence too many issues. It took almost a quarter of an hour to offer a noteworthy chance, as Kelsey Millen sent in a wicked cross from the right that Emily Schofield couldn’t quite convert from close range. As the half hour mark approached an opportunity arose for Stevenage to deliver the first decisive blow. Lucy Webster took over attacking duties and broke through the middle of the park, before being unceremoniously dumped to the floor as she entered the area. Chris Geelan pointed to the spot and entered Hannah Major into the book with a yellow card. In the absence of Amy Makewell, Jodie Bellinger, making her 40 th career appearance for Stevenage, stepped up in the ultimate showdown. Her effort however was matched by Angelica Kopec in goal and the game remained at a stalemate. Borough had one final major opportunity to take the lead before the break after Schofield was brought down at the edge of the area. Shianne Swarres hovered over the ball before delivering a sublime free kick over the wall, but on a collision course with the crossbar. Luton cleared their lines and the scoreline remained level. Immediately upon the restart, Boro started with a spring in their step. Nicole Farmer mimicked Swarres’ earlier effort as she hammered the ball into the bar from a free kick. Down the other end, Stevenage rode their luck as Elizabeth Sanders wandered around Tea Oldroyd only to find her effort blocked on the line by Neal and cleared. The reprieve lasted barely two minutes as Leyah Maddix scored her ninth goal of the season as she latched on to a ball from ex Boro-player Andie Dickens and saw her header roll into the empty net. Stevenage could have been deflated and defeated, but they continued to dig in. Amy Gooderham made her return to action and gave the defence something to worry about. Her best early opportunity came from a great ball from Erin Price, but her initial touch was just too heavy and Kopec had no troubles winning the race. Two minutes ater and Boro’ were level. A free kick from Webster was pushed onto the post by Kopec. The ball rebounded off the woodwork and rolled into the path of Kopec and ex Boro’ defender Tanya Blacksley who was unfortunate to deflect the ball into her own net . Blacksley had made 69 appearances for Stevenage in her career without ever scoring, but the Borough fans were overjoyed. The game continued as it started, a battle with two teams slugging it out to see who would be top of the mountain. Becky Shephard was starting to find some spaces and had set Gooderham up with another opportunity that Kopec was equal to. As the minutes ticked into the additional three minutes that were added on, Boro’ earned a corner. Shephard took the set piece and placed it into the perfect spot for Neal to attack the far post and be first to the ball with a vicious header that sent the home fans and staff into ecstasy. Photo: Edward Payne “I’ll remember that one, I was glad I could contribute with one off the line and that goal!” Neal said afterwards. “I feel like we really fought for the game today.” A nervy minute was played before the final whistle blew and Stevenage celebrated their return to the top of the league with Luton still very much in the hunt for glory thanks to their games in hand. Captain Lucy Webster was “Buzzing” after the game, claiming “Today just showed our standards and nothing is better than beating the team at the top of the table in the last minute of the game.” This was something the manager, Fadi Mazloum, fully agreed with. “It feels good. You could see the fight and determination from the girls today. I always felt we were in it. That’s the standard, week in, week out.” Stevenage XI: Oldroyd, Farmer, Webster (c), Neal, Re, Price, Bodily, Greenwood, Schofield, Millen, Bellinger Subs: Shephard, Makewell, Swarres, Gooderham, White Goals: Blacksley (og), Neal Luton XI: Kopec, Taylor, Wade, Blacksley, Major, McKay, Palmiero, Constable, Dickens, Sanders, Maddix Subs: Payne, Lewis, Hussain, Milton, Wilson Goals: Maddix Booked: Major, McKay, Maddix

Anita Asante Two Decades of Excellence Legendary Lionesses: Anita Asante A Back 7 May 2022 By Charlotte Stacey Two Decades of Excellence Getty Images The morning before her 37th birthday, Aston Villa defender Anita Asante announced her retirement from professional football. Asante’s announcement was perhaps slightly surprising, but sewing up an immense twenty-year career was bound to come sooner or later. Asante’s presence is one as familiar as a pitch itself and a WSL season without the centre-back gracing the grass will certainly take some getting used to. From childhood football in the cages of North London to representing Great Britain in the Olympics, Asante’s career has taken her across the globe and seen her win multiple accolades, always at the very pinnacle of the game. Signing a senior contract at her beloved Arsenal in 2003 as a teenager, Asante was a part of the Gunners squad that made history becoming the first and only club to win the quadruple (Premier League, Premier League Cup, FA Cup and Champions League) in 2006-07. Asante is widely regarded to have played an exceptional game in the Champions League final against Swedish side Umeå. Asante then moved across London to join Chelsea for a year before spending the next portion of her career overseas. In 2009 Asante joined New Jersey side Sky Blue FC in the inaugural season of the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) and helped the side to win their first campaign. She was then traded to the now obsolete Saint Louis Athletica and the briefly joined Chicago Red Stars. Asante moved once again in 2010 to Washington Spirit before following then coach Jim Gabarra back to Sky Blue. After the WPS folded in 2012, Asante took the opportunity to head back to Europe and settled into the Damallsvenskan, the top-flight of women’s football in Sweden. Asante joined Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC (now known as BK Häcken) and went on to make 41 appearances and score nine goals, as well as winning the Svenska Cupen (Swedish Cup) and the Svenska Supercupen (Swedish Super Cup). The defender then moved across to Swedish champions LdB FC Malmö (now known as FC Rosengård) and continued her illustrious run abroad. Asante picked up hordes of silverware in her four years with Rosengård, including the league title in 2014 and 2015, the Swedish Cup in 2016 and the Swedish Super Cup in 2016 and 2017. She also was part of the side that reached three Champions League quarter finals. Swedish dominance achieved; Asante returned to England to join Chelsea in the WSL in 2018 before signing the final contract of her career with Aston Villa in 2020 for their first campaign in the top division. Rather fittingly, Asante’s final away match came against Arsenal, signing out the very same way she signed in. With such noteworthy domestic form, it is unsurprising that Asante’s international bearing is no less impressive. Asante played for England through the youth groups and captained the U19 Lionesses to victory in 2002 at the U19 World Cup. Asante went on to make her senior debut in 2004 and subsequently made 71 appearances and scored two goals for her country. Asante was also part of the 2012 Olympic squad in which she featured prominently, playing in all four of Team GB’s matches before their eventual defeat in the final eight. Charlotte Stacey Asante’s style of play is simple; no nonsense, fundamentally driven, quality defending, and it has been her complete mastery of the basics that have kept her at the top for so long. In the final stretch of her pitch side endeavours Asante has played over 35 games for Aston Villa, still an essential part of the set-up as she was twenty years ago. Timely blocks, clever interceptions, imposing body positioning to force an opponent onto the wrong foot, all make up the small details of Asante’s game. Yet, possibly where she is most deadly is in one-v-one situations. Governing that backline with a notable astuteness, Asante is incredibly calm when handling immediate pressure. She will stick with an attacker before knowingly using her physicality or smart footwork to dispossess. In fact, in this final season alone, Asante leads as the player who has tackled the greatest number of dribblers throughout the term. Put simply, one sighs a certain amount of relief when Asante’s name pops up in the starting eleven. Asante’s mark, however, has not just been stamped between the confines of the touchlines. Advocate and activist, for many years Asante has campaigned for the rights of the LGBTQAI+ community, as well as strongly supporting Show Racism the Red Card and Amnesty International and Goals for Girls. Looking ahead, it seems there will be plenty on the horizon. Asante already lends her experienced voice to the masses, sharing her expertise in educating the nuances of women’s football as a pundit within the media industry. Yet further than that, Asante has ambitions that will eventually see her back in the dugout, aspiring to come full circle and head back to where it all began. Asante hopes to one day return to The Arsenal and manage the club that has sparked two decades of a remarkable life. “My long-term ambition is to one day manage my childhood club – it would be amazing to go back to where it all began. I want to live again in that world that gave me so much.” – Anita Asante. It is abundantly clear there is a deep passion that runs through Asante for the causes and issues that are close to her, and whilst pitch may lose a great, the sport and its lending organisations gain someone truly special. The floods of tributes from coaches, players and supporters alike only served to confirm the iconic status of the stalwart. Plain and simple, the pitch will miss the ever-present excellence of Anita Asante.

Fara Williams receives pitch honour at St. George's Park as Millie Bright heaps praise on Aggie Beaver-Jones The Lionesses look ahead to their final Euro's qualifying match Back Fara Williams receives pitch honour at St. George's Park as Millie Bright heaps praise on Aggie Beaver-Jones Getty Tuesday, 16 July 2024 Aimee Logan On the 9th July 2024, St. George’s Park unveiled their newly named pitch 5, The Fara Williams pitch, in a tribute to her incredible England career. During the opening, the media were joined by the entirety of the current Lionesses squad to watch Williams speak about her pitch for the first time. Despite the wet weather conditions, her spirits were not dampened as she described how the pitch was ‘an honour’ and that it ‘brought a smile to her face.’ Lucy Bronze spoke at the pitch opening and helped everyone reflect on the impact that Fara Williams has had on women’s football. She said, "The love of the game that she has, she pretty much coached most the players who ever played for England because she’d tell you every single tactic there was in the entire world. That’s where I’ve got it from! The want to learn and the want to give out information you probably don’t see that much with Fara [Williams] because she always hid behind the cameras she never liked to speak in front of people, and she always sells herself short. I think she was a huge inspiration to all the players that ever played with her, especially in an England shirt." Millie Bright had her full focus on the camp ahead. She spoke about how the preparation camp in the Netherlands and the game against the Dutch team helped prepare the Lionesses for these Euro Qualifier matches. ‘It was really good! Although it was just a friendly it was a real good opportunity to have that competitiveness and not just playing against each other’. ‘It gave different threats it posed different challenges and again it was a good opportunity for us to work together as a team, problem solve and for people to get minutes in the bank ’. Bright once again had plenty of praise for her Chelsea teammate Aggie Beever-Jones who was the only goal scorer in the friendly against The Netherlands, ‘I’ve always said Aggie’s like a sponge in every environment she comes into. I think she’s always just trying to develop and learn. I think she’s really good at asking questions and sometimes saying when she doesn’t understand, she might not always verbalise that in front of everyone, but she would certainly come to me and ask a question. I always encourage her to do that because when you’re a youngster in this environment you need to take everyday and just always keep working to get bette r.’ This camp England face Sweden in their last qualifying match. They played Ireland on Friday (12/07) and secured a 2-1 victory so will look to be victorious over the tough Swedish opposition.

Sarina Wiegman has named her 23 player World Cup Squad that will head to Australia and New Zealand this summer Lionesses World Cup Squad Announced Back Sarina Wiegman has named her 23 player World Cup Squad that will head to Australia and New Zealand this summer Nathan Stirk Thursday, 1 June 2023 By Cayden Sands Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman has revealed her 23 player squad that will travel to Australia for this summer’s World Cup. Expected additions include the likes of goalkeepers Mary Earps, Ellie Roebuck and Hannah Hampton, as well as the Manchester United pairing of Alessia Russo and Ella Toone. However, the biggest talking points are the absence of Arsenal superstar and Euro 2022 golden boot winner Beth Mead , who despite being subject to some speculation, misses out as she continues her recovery from her ACL injury, whilst Tottenham Hotspur’s Bethany England makes the cut after an incredible second half of the season since her move to North London in January, scoring 12 goals in as many games. When questioned on if there was a possibility of Mead ever making the squad, Wiegman said: “No I don’t think so. Beth is so positive and she’s going really well, but we said with the time schedule she has, we would have taken so many risks to try get her to the World Cup.” On England’s inclusion, Wiegman explained: “She made her move and played in a hard situation. How she did and how she performed and also how much resilience she showed, that made us make the decision to get her in the squad.” Brighton and Hove Albion’s Katie Robinson also makes the cut after an impressive showing for both club and country, helping the Seagulls maintain their WSL status in the process. Wiegman was full of praise for Robinson, saying: “She’s very talented and she has made a difference at Brighton. With us in our camp, she’s really showed quality too, so she made us choose her.” Of course, a glaring absence is that of captain Leah Williamson, who joined Mead on the long-term injury list during Arsenal’s recent defeat to Manchester United. Wiegman expressed her own disappointment in regards to Williamson’s situation, but offered a glimmer of optimism that the team can cope without her, saying: “Most of all for her it’s very disappointing and very sad, but that’s the same for Fran and the same for Beth. You have to move on too, and unfortunately this is part of top sports, that you can get injured.” “We had Leah and the vice-captain was Millie,” was a key statement in Wiegman’s comments regarding last year’s European Championships that offered a clear indication that Chelsea’s Millie Bright would indeed be the team leader in Australia, this being confirmed by Wiegman simply saying “yeah” in response to the big question. One decision that has left fans in shock is the decision to not have Manchester United’s Maya Le Tissier as part of the squad, the defender instead being placed on a reserve list alongside goalkeeper Emily Ramsey and Everton forward Jess Park. On Le Tessier’s exclusion, Wiegman said: “She was really close, that was a hard call with all the defenders we had to think about.” The debate about who should and shouldn’t have made it will no doubt rumble on in the coming days and weeks before England fly out to Australia, but little can be done to change the squad now. Despite the injury setbacks, this side will definitely remain a favourite to go all the way down under and bring football home once again. Lionesses World Cup Squad Goalkeepers: Mary Earps, Ellie Roebuck, Hannah Hampton Defenders: Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Jess Carter, Niamh Charles, Alex Greenwood, Esme Morgan, Lotte Wubben-Moy Midfielders: Laura Coombes, Jordan Nobbs, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Keira Walsh, Katie Zelem Forwards: Rachel Daly, Bethany England, Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly, Katie Robinson, Alessia Russo

SheBelieves Cup 2020 I Don't Believe It 22nd February 2020 By Charlotte Stacey Alex Grimm The news of Lucy Bronze's withdrawal is a tough blow for the Lionesses SheBelieves campaign. With Beth Mead already out, Bronze's injury was a hard pill to swallow for many. Lucy Bronze is arguably the best right back in the world; undoubtedly, an asset to the England squad. But it should be noted that Bronze is perhaps not the only player to write home about. The Lionesses have plenty of established and upcoming talent within their squad, and the SheBelieves Cup is a prime opportunity for players to showcase this. Phil Neville has selected a rather well rounded squad. A mindful mix of old and new. Experience and youth. Putting his confidence in a number of younger players, Neville is sensibly looking forward to the future of the Lionesses, taking account of the performances displayed by these youngsters here and now. Defensively, Neville has players in abundance. A number of formations could make up the back four and this was conceivably his thinking all along. As the Lionesses defensive performance has seemingly fallen below par as of late, this is a good time to test the waters. Concerning Bronze's absence, it will be interesting to see who the role of right back falls to. Abbie McManus could be a nice fit, and this would be a good chance to broaden her defensive repertoire. But possibly more likely, Neville may entrust the job to Rachel Daly, whom despite having a natural attacking ability, demonstrates a dependable proficiency in all positions on the field. In the middle, a smaller selection. Neville perhaps regarding quality over quantity here. Prime playmaker Keira Walsh will no doubt find herself playing alongside vice captain Jordan Nobbs; a visionary and an innovator at the teams core. Throw in the much underestimated Lucy Staniforth and we have ourselves a serious central midfield. Action Images Bronze's spot has been handed to training player Alessia Russo. Russo has represented England in all age categories and unquestionably shows promise. A player with the nerve to go for it, and the skill to finish it. Russo receives the call up for her first senior tournament alongside young forwards Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly, both of whom have been outstanding with their domestic clubs this season. Alongside these youngsters, up front Neville has selected the more seasoned Toni Duggan and Nikita Parris, alongside Ellen White, who certainly knows how to switch it on with the three lions on her shirt. Unsurprisingly, considering her season so far, Chelsea's top goal scorer Beth England has also been called up and looks to be a real threat within the England camp. This blend of well practiced and youthful players, should set the team in good stead. The defensive talents of Leah Williamson, and the finish of Georgia Stanway, should work well with the all important experience of Steph Houghton and Jill Scott. It is important to remember that tournaments are not usually won with the talents of one player alone. Winning teams succeed with the gifts of many, and the Lionesses squad surely reflects that value. The SheBelieves Cup is a friendly tournament. Does it provide a chance for the Lionesses to get even with the USWNT? Definitely. But more importantly, it provides a chance for this fresh team to prepare for bigger things. Still having no word on Grace Fisk who have suffered recent injuries, there is a chance that Neville's squad may see some changes once again. Whilst of course, this is not ideal, it is merely a bump in the road. Lionesses supporters will rally behind the squad, and surely the likes of Bronze and Mead would agree, it is the team we stand with, regardless of which players are on the pitch. Of course, the Lionesses will approach this tournament with the intent of defending their title, and naturally it would be lovely if they could. But if they do not manage it this time, it might not be the end of the world. With the Euro's looming, perhaps this isn't the trophy to win, perhaps this is just the warm up.

Lionesses fall short against French "B" side. Friendly: France 3 - 1 England Back Lionesses fall short against French "B" side. via Lionesses Friday, 9 April 2021 By Charlotte Stacey On the afternoon of The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip’s passing, the FA announced that the evening’s scheduled match between France and England would indeed go ahead as planned. In what was interim head coach Hege Riise’s, most competitive fixture to date, the Lionesses lined up against a slightly depleted French squad. The current Covid-19 situation in France meant that a large number of regular starters, namely from Lyon, were not able to partake in the match. England and Manchester City skipper Steph Houghton was not selected as part of Riise’s April squad due to injury. Fellow City teammate Ellen White was named as captain in Houghton’s absence. Fullbacks Lucy Bronze and Demi Stokes were ruled out from the evening’s selection with minor injuries. Broadcasting moved from BBC Four to BBC iPlayer due to the day’s events. The Lionesses took to the field wearing black armbands and completed a minute’s silence beneath a photograph of the late Duke prior to kick-off. After a fairly uneventful first few moments, the first chance of the match fell to France on the five-minute mark. The quick pace of the French forward line pounce on an error made by the English side as Valerie Gauvin thunders up the left wing in possession before releasing the ball into the box. Millie Bright is able to get a foot to it and push it out for a corner. This was to become a common theme throughout the first half, the Lionesses getting caught on the counter as France seized sloppy mistakes. England’s first chance fell to Beth Mead at 13 minutes as the winger took an ambitious shot set up by a pass just outside of the box from Fran Kirby. Mead’s shot is easily dealt with by Pauline Peyraud- Magnin. England find themselves with another chance through a fiery shot from Nikita Parris as a momentarily lulled France allow an opening. Once again, the ball is cleared by Peyraud-Magnin. France then begin to gather steam and cause an awful lot of problems for England’s back four. Goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck also finds herself in hot water after making two consecutive errors, yet still the score remains level. England rouse as the clock tips half an hour and Keira Walsh slides in a well-timed ball to a running Mead. Mead squares it into the box as Ellen White slots it into the back of the net. Yet the whistle blows as the ball crosses the line, White was offside - goal disallowed. As the panning game would suggest, France respond immediately as England shake off the decision. The French side waste no time in speedily dribbling the ball along the right wing, stretching England immensely. After taking the ball the length of the pitch, it is pulled back into the box where Sandy Baltimore fires a snarling shot around Roebuck into the top left corner. France open the scoresheet at thirty-one minutes. What follows are chances created and missed by both sides, notably for Gauvin who skies a pinpoint cross over the bar, and Parris who misdirects an open header up the other end. The half finishes with France one ahead. After the break, England have made two substitutions, one offensive with Chloe Kelly replacing Parris, and one defensive with Niamh Charles replacing Alex Greenwood. France’s side remains unchanged. Just over a minute after the whistle has blown, Rachel Daly, who has switched from right-back to left, sends in a fiery left footed shot that lifts just above the crossbar. A nasty looking injury then halts play as Gauvin twists an ankle when preparing to jump. The Everton forward, who has suffered long term injuries before, looks to be in pain but remains on the pitch for the time being. On the hour mark, Roebuck is forced into action once again as Baltimore dances through the English defence before laying the ball off to Katoto who sends in the shot. This time, Roebuck is able to tip it out of play. France are then awarded a penalty after a collision in the box after a scramble for a rebounded ball. Substitute Viviane Asseyi stands over the ball to take her first touch of the match, sends in a calm penalty and France are two nil up. Yet, the pendulum began to swing the other way with just over ten minutes to go. Lauren Hemp is brought down in the box by France’s captain for the day, Marion Torrent. With England’s usual penalty takers absent, Kirby walks up to take the spot kick. Never in doubt, the Cheslea star places a delicate low ball in the bottom left-hand corner. France 2, England 1. England then begin to look a little more dangerous, their goal noticeably lifting spirits. Yet these were to be short lived as France once again take advantage of a disorganised English formation. Kadidiatou Diana runs the flank the pitch before slipping around Arsenal centre half, Lotte Wubben-Moy. She then passes it inside to Katoto, who is able to gently tap it into the net. The final whistle blows and it is France - 3, England - 1. Not the ideal start for Hege Riise, yet on a more positive note, the match did reveal areas that need improvement which is key for progression. What was possibly most concerning was that an almost full and fit England was not able to really test a weakened side France, even when retaining around sixty percent of possession. England’s defensive holes and their sluggishness in snapping back to the ‘present’ after suffering disappointment in their attack was ultimately their downfall and France very quickly learned how to exploit this. Let the Lionesses do the hard work and punish them on the counter attack when they are transitorily out of shape. England certainly possess the individual defensive talent to perform to a higher standard than was shown tonight. Having not played together since March 2020, except from a recent friendly against Northern Ireland, will have no doubt contributed to this inconsistency. Furthermore, looking higher up the pitch, there were most definitely some pleasurable moments. Midfielder Keira Walsh, made excellent decisions on the ball, Fran Kirby was instrumental in producing creative passages of play and substitute Lauren Hemp’s presence was immediately uplifting. Now is the time to dust off the cobwebs and work out the kinks as we look forward to the Olympics and the Euro’s 2022. The Lionesses will now face Canada on Tuesday at 7:15pm (BST). France Starting XI: Peyraud-Magnin (GK), Torrent (C) (84’), Tounkara, De Almeida, Morroni, Palis (59’), Geyoro, Baltimore, Diani, Gauvin (59’), Katoto France Substitutes: Durrand (GK), Picaud, Asseyi (59’), Dali, Deslandes, Fleury, Kazadi, Jaurena (59’), Jean-Francois, Khelifi, Le Sommer, Perisset (84’), Thibaud Goals: Baltimore – 31’ Asseyi (p) – 63’ Katoto – 82’ Yellow Cards: Torrent (C) – 76’ England Starting XI: Roebuck (GK), Daly, Williamson (63’), Bright, Greenwood (45’), Walsh, Scott (72’), Kirby, Mead (63’), White (C) (72’), Parris (45’) England Substitutes: MacIver (GK), Telford (GK), Bardsley (GK), Charles (45’), Turner, Wubben-Moy (63’), Morgan, Toone, Nobbs (72’), Stanway, Kelly (45’), Hemp (63’), England (72’) Goals: Kirby – 78’ Yellow Cards: Mead – 17’ Daly – 89’

Thoughts on: Molly Bartrip Thoughts on: Molly Bartrip Bartrip Back 4 June 2022 By Charlotte Stacey Molly Bartrip: An Evolution to Note Girls on the Ball Tottenham Hotspur enjoyed a fruitful season, becoming early contenders for a spot in the top three, as well as churning out impressive performances across the board. Spurs eventually finished in fifth place with a respectable 32 points, achieving their highest ever billing in the top-flight. Boss Rehanne Skinner, came in midway through the 2020-21 season replacing longstanding coaches Karen Hills and Juan Amoros and immediately set to in overhauling the struggling Lilywhites, releasing and signing a total of 11 players’ last term. Nesting amongst Skinner’s new troops lies a player that has made a wealth of difference; centre back Molly Bartrip. A WSL original, Bartrip joined Tottenham Hotspur last summer, departing from Reading where she had been since the inception of the rejuvenated league. Bartrip made over 100 appearances for Reading and was evidently an essential figure in her final season with the Royals, featuring in 21 out of 22 league games. Bartrip’s form has only improved since her arrival at Spurs, noted, not exclusively, by the fact she has played every single minute of this campaign. Pairing up with captain Shelina Zadorsky, the duo have forged an on-field partnership that saw the Lilywhites keep eight clean sheets, as well as a positive goal difference for the first time in the top division. Morphing into a more progressive centre-back, Bartrip is the ying to Zadorsky’s yang, each contributing equal weight to the decision making of the backline. When one steps forward, the other inherently remains put to cover, and vice versa. Although both defenders offer plenty in terms build-up play, it is Bartrip who is taking up this role slightly more regularly. Registering, not only as one of the top two players in the squad to attempt the most passes, but the player with the highest passing accuracy rate, one can begin to understand Bartrip’s evolution. Graphic - Charlotte Stacey / Photos: Girls on the Ball & Tottenham Hotspur Women Central defenders are, more so nowadays, becoming auxiliary playmakers during preliminary attacking phases. They are expected to spur positive passages of play from the back and to offer support as players situated higher afield flood forward. However, of course, they must also fulfil their defensive duties and ensure that the goalkeeper has adequate protection should play swing the other way. This is where Bartrip is emerging as a standout performer. Bartrip is already well known for her defensive qualities. She is well versed in applying pressure in one-on-one situations, winning over possession and positioning herself readily enough to make numerous blocks and interceptions. These attributes have not dwindled one iota in her first season in North London, they have, in actuality, enhanced. This is seen in several of Bartrip’s statistics, namely in individual challenges. Although her number of players tackled has dropped somewhat from her time at Reading, the quality of these pressures has improved greatly. An example can be seen in the number of dribblers challenged, in which Bartrip had a 61.5% success rate, up from 21.7% last year. Being able to get the balance right between pushing forward and retaining a stout defensive disposition is a difficult skill to perfect and Bartrip does have a little way to go in getting this consistently right. However, with her recognised development refining further year after year, the foundations are quite obviously stable enough to build upon. It is no coincidence that Tottenham’s rise to the top coincided with Bartrip’s arrival and she will almost certainly continue to be a core component in the next phase of Spurs' development.

Thoughts on: Ellen White Thoughts on: Ellen White White Back 12 September 2020 By Charlotte Stacey One to White Home About Sky Sports With this last year adding to her already outstanding domestic and international record, Manchester City and England forward Ellen White continues to establish herself as one of the finest finishers in the game. Ellen White is well and truly making her mark on English football. Having played for a number of professional clubs, and being prolific at each, White is a big signing, and rightly so. Pairing a natural positional intelligence with a composed touch, White’s consistency in front of goal is enviable. At her former club Birmingham City, White scored an impressive 23 goals in 26 appearances; for Manchester City, 6 goals in 11 appearances so far. But whilst her domestic statistics are more than respectable, it is for her country that White truly excels. Put White in an England shirt and she knows exactly what to do. With her typical execution seemingly amplified when she is wearing the Three Lions, White’s exceptional performances with the Lionesses have rightly earned her a catalogue of accolades. Amongst these, White has twice been voted as England’s Women’s Player of the Year, and ended last year’s World Cup as the joint top goal scorer. And so, it is rather fitting then, that it was White who made history as the first player to score for the Lionesses at Wembley Stadium last year. A feat that could not have been earned by a more deserving player. It is perhaps White’s distinctive drive, alongside her level-headedness, that has propelled her so greatly. Where she is ambitious, she is not over-zealous. Imperturbable by nature, White is cool, calm and collected in all that she does. Sensible on the ball, she does not try to “over-do” it, always careful not to squander a chance with a flippant attempt. Betfair A forward thinker if ever you’ve seen one, it seems White often finds herself in the right place at the right time. Yet, this is no accident. By adapting her experience of other positions, utilising her pace, and fine tuning what she knows best, White has crafted herself into a striker that punishes inside the box. Blindside the defence, time the run to the pass, tuck the ball in the net; clean and concise - trademark Ellen White. Whilst she is renowned for her goal scoring abilities, it is important to note that other aspects of White’s game are just as impressive. White has a work ethic that is unremitting. Whether she is chasing down a loose ball, or drawing back into the middle third to regroup, she does not stop. White simply refuses to become redundant. When she is, perhaps, not receiving the service expected, she will go after it herself. An altogether indefatigable player. Decisions made my officials can make or break a spirit, and White has certainly had her fair share of frustrations. Disallowed goals and missed penalties can be devastating, yet they are not to be dwelled upon, and it is here where White’s resilience prevails. Disappointment is to be put to once side for the time being, and the remainder of the game is business as usual. White is not defeatist under any circumstance, and it is this buoyancy that often keeps her team afloat. A clinical, world class finisher; we have certainly come to expect a lot from White. Luckily for us, she rarely falters. With a constructive attitude and ever-present hunger for improvement, White is a player to flaunt. And her down to earth and charitable nature seen off the pitch is really the icing on the cake. So, with a few monumental summers ahead, Lionesses fans can rest easy. We’ll be alright, with Ellen White.

Thoughts on: Fara Williams Thoughts on: Fara Williams Williams Back 3 June 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Williams: 20 years and counting Matthew Lewis England centurion and true pioneer of women’s football Fara Williams has played her last game of professional football, closing the book on her illustrious 20-year pitch side career. You would not have to delve far into the world of women’s football before the name Fara Williams would crop up. The 37-year-old has been a staple figure of the game long before the audiences, sponsorships and broadcasting deals of today caught up. Career flutterings began at the age of twelve with Chelsea, the team she grew up supporting. Williams impressed at the Blues’ trials despite arriving hours late due to a calamity with bus numbers. From there, professionally, things began to pick up. Williams remained at Chelsea until 2001, playing for the first team for one year before she signed for Charlton Athletic. At the time Charlton was a big player in the women’s league, well regarded as one of the most fruitful teams to play for. Williams completed a three-year spell with the Addicks, yet missed out on their eventual consecutive FA Cup victories after making the move to Everton, under coach Mo Marley, in 2004. As with her previous stints, Williams’ time with the Toffees was another tale of brilliance. Very quickly Williams certified herself an essential figure within the squad as confirmed when she was voted as FA Players' Player of the Year in 2009. She also finally managed to chase down that illusive FA Cup whilst at Everton in 2010. From there Williams hopped over to Merseyside adversary Liverpool. A flagship signing for the club and their bid to rival North London titans Arsenal’s supremacy. Indeed, not only did Liverpool rival the Gunners, they reigned victorious, winning back-to-back league titles in 2013 and 2014. Success was short lived however as the Reds tumbled to the bottom of the table and Williams herself was out with injury. Moving once again, Williams spent one season with The Arsenal before concluding her story with a four-year term at Reading. The enduring case of Fara Williams was as impressive internationally as it was domestically. The midfielder remained sought after from the moment she wore her first senior England shirt aged 17. Williams would then go on to become England’s most capped player of all time. Not women’s player. Just player. She has racked up a total of 172 caps for her country; she has represented Team GB in the Olympics; she has played in four European Championships and three World Cups. Unfortunately, Williams did not make the cut in the Lionesses’ World Cup campaign before her retirement in what will persist as a controversial judgement by England’s then head coach. Girls on the Ball & Charlotte Stacey When pouring over these achievements one could be rather easily fooled into believing that for Williams it came easy. Yet this could not be further from the truth. Whilst she quite clearly exuded an effortlessly raw footballing talent, life outside of the touchlines was far from easy. Unbeknownst her teammates and coaches, for six years throughout early part of her career, Williams was homeless. Family disagreements and self-confessed ‘stubbornness’ led to Williams’ prolonged period living in and out of hostels. With little physical, emotional or psychological security back then, Williams now openly contemplates this time. Speaking to Oliver Brown at The Telegraph, she reflects, “I probably ended up homeless a little longer than I needed to. When I was first in a hostel, I used to share a room with three other females. My belongings would get stolen, my clothes. That was what troubled me the most. I never had any friendships or relationships there. Inside, I had to remain strong.” It is this inner strength and resolute determination that propelled Williams to such magnitude on the field. It can be rare to find an athlete of profound talent that with the hunger to tune their gift with such fortitude. It is even rarer to find that elevates so finely with age. Williams cites former England coach and current Brighton and Hove coach Hope Powell, and former Everton and England U-21 coach Marley, as two of her greatest influences both professionally and personally. For it was Powell who eventually learned of Williams’ struggles outside of training. Powell who bought her bedding and drove her to a homeless unit in London that night. Setbacks and injuries are part and parcel of an athlete’s course and Williams was no exception to this. After niggling injuries throughout her career, her most concerning medical complaint came very late on. A few months prior to announcing her retirement, Williams revealed that she had been diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome, a kidney condition that is treated with steroids. The medication Williams was taking resulted in a number of distressing side effects that partly led to her to take the decision to bow out gracefully. As her rather fitting game final game against her beloved Chelsea was upon us, we were served with the opportunity to savour a last glimpse of a twenty-year honed creation. To reflect on a personal evolution that has steadily budded over the years. By her own admission, Williams progressed from “a dribbling creator” to a “creative passer” (Sarah Shephard, The Athletic) alluding to the rawness that was exorcised and the finesse that was expected. Yet here Williams sells herself short. The footballer that stands before us is far more than a creative passer. Williams is intuitively tactical, expertly navigational and a deadly set piece taker. But further than this is her first-hand experience of the sport. Williams has lived through the gradual growth of the women’s game; she has remained an integral figure when leagues and clubs have been uprooted, restructured and reinvented. And as this continues to mature, despite her retirement, it is likely that Williams will remain as such. With media opportunities now broadening, Williams has expressed interest in trying her hand with punditry or commentary. Williams has called for more truthful critiques of the women’s game, specifically with the national team, who, many would agree, are still not up to par. With an honest mentality and personal knowledge of the game, Williams would certainly bring a refreshingly candid take. Yet, an ambition that sits slightly closer is coaching, a role Williams has always seen herself taking on. As she hangs up her boots Williams can proudly look over a job well done and take some deserved time away from the pitch. However, with her proven track record, reciprocal loyalty to football and trademark headstrong approach, one can bet, she won’t be away for too long.