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- Movement in the Lionesses camp | On Her Side
Sarina Wiegman announces Lionesses squad ahead of World Cup Qualifiers Movement in the Lionesses camp Back Sarina Wiegman announces Lionesses squad ahead of World Cup Qualifiers Girls on the Ball Thursday, 25 August 2022 Josh Bunting Arsenal midfielder Jordan Nobbs has been recalled to the England squad for next months World Cup qualification games with Austria and Luxembourg. The Gunners midfielder missed out on the Euro 2022 victory due to injury. The European champions need a point away to nearest group rivals Austria on Saturday 3 September or, failing that, a victory at home to Luxembourg at a sold-out Stoke City on Tuesday 6 September to confirm their spot in Australia and New Zealand next summer. Nobbs who has 67 senior caps for England is included alongside England captain Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Beth Mead. Chloe Kelly and Fran Kirby will miss out through injury while two other notable absentees are Jill Scott and Ellen White after the experienced duo this week announced their retirement from football. Sarina Wiegman said: “ It only feels like yesterday since we were celebrating at Wembley, but we have to get straight back to business. We have a big target in front of us this month to book our place at the World Cup, and we have to set aside our amazing memories of this summer for the moment. We have lost four players in midfield and forward positions so I am pleased we can turn to experience in Katie Zelem and Jordan Nobbs along with two for the future in Lauren James and Ebony Salmon. “When we can, it is important to give opportunities to our promising younger players in this environment, and for them to experience what is expected in the senior set-up both on and off the pitch. This includes Sandy MacIver who just missed out on Euro 2022.” Wiegman added Nobbs was "really excited" to be a part of the squad again and would be keen to make an impression before next summer's World Cup. "She was very disappointed that she got injured and needed more time for the Euros," she told BBC Radio 5 Live. She worked hard over the summer and has had good preparation with Arsenal. I am very interested to see where she is at the moment and how she is coming back from the injury." The squad will begin their camp at St. George’s Park this Sunday evening (28 August). Alex Greenwood celebrates England's 5-1 win over the Netherlands Photo: Ryan Asman England squad: Goalkeepers: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Sandy MacIver, Ellie Roebuck (both Manchester City). Defenders: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Barcelona), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Rachel Daly (Aston Villa), Alex Greenwood, Demi Stokes (both Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy, Leah Williamson (both Arsenal). Midfielders: Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Katie Zelem (Manchester United). Forwards: Bethany England (Chelsea), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Nikita Parris, Alessia Russo (both Manchester United), Ebony Salmon (Houston Dash).
- Lionesses beat Austria 2-0 to qualify for World Cup | On Her Side
A clean run through the World Cup Qualifying games sees the Lionesses straight through to next years tournament Lionesses beat Austria 2-0 to qualify for World Cup Back A clean run through the World Cup Qualifying games sees the Lionesses straight through to next years tournament Girls on the Ball Sunday, 4 September 2022 By Paul Donegan England reached the 2023 World Cup finals with a 2-0 win over Austria. In their first match since becoming European champions, England scored a goal in each half with Alessia Russo and Nikita Parris getting on the scoresheet. Austria named the same starting line-up that lost to Germany in the Euro’s quarter-finals. Sarina Wiegman made three changes from the starting eleven that won the Euro’s final with Alex Greenwood, Ella Toone and Russo coming in for Rachel Daly, Fran Kirby (injured) and Ellen White (retired). England took the lead in the 7th minute when Greenwood’s cross was headed back by Lauren Hemp, and via a slight deflection off Toone, it found Russo who finished with a low effort into the corner of the net. Russo had a chance to make it 2-0 two minutes later but sent her header straight into Manuela Zinsberger’s hands. A couple of minutes later, England almost got themselves into some trouble when trying to play out from the back and gave the ball away but Julia Hickelsberger-Fuller shot over. In the 17th minute, Georgia Stanway shot well over from about 25 yards out. Austria came back into it as the first half went on but didn’t really threaten Mary Earps. England were causing some of their own problems again when trying to play the ball out with Austria pressing them. Just before half time, a low dangerous cross from Lucy Bronze was cleared by the Austria defence before Russo could get to the ball. Austria had the first chance of the second half when Hickelsberger-Fuller again pressed Earps whilst England were trying to play out and saw the ball go just wide of the post. England then created chances of their own with Lucy Bronze seeing her shot saved in the 49th minute, and Toone sent her shot just wide from the edge of the area a minute later. The Lionesses continued to have opportunities with Stanway seeing her shot saved by Zinsberger’s foot, and then she shot wide from 20 yards out in the 55th minute as England went looking for a second. In the 59th minute, Beth Mead flicked the ball past an Austrian defender then sent a cross in that Russo met with her head but the ball finished up in the goalkeepers hands. Austria forced Earps to make a good save in the 60th minute when Laura Feiersinger sent a shot towards goal from about 20 yards that the England keeper pushed over. England did make it 2-0 in the 69th minute when Stanway’s lovely through ball found Parris in the area and she finished into the top corner. Austria had a chance to get back into the game almost straight away when Feiersinger’s cross went right across the goal but no one could get a touch on it. Another nice through ball in the 77th minute, this time from Keira Walsh, found Parris and after a good first touch she shot wide, maybe with the help of a deflection but a goal kick was given. Lauren James came on to make her senior England debut in the 79th minute. Austria had a few attacks in the final 10 minutes but England defended these well. There was a chance for England in the 90th minute but Parris was just unable to get onto James’ pass. The final effort of the match went to Austria but the shot was caught by Earps. England now have a record of 9 out 9 wins, 70 goals scored and none conceded. The Lionesses finish their qualifying campaign on Tuesday at home to Luxembourg whilst Austria, who will be in the play-offs, face North Macedonia. Line ups Austria: Zinsberger, Wienroither, Wenninger (c), Georgieva, Hanshaw, Puntigam, Hickelsberger-Fuller (Naschenweng 69’), Zadrazil, Feiersinger (Hobinger 88’), Dunst (Kolb 88’), Billa (Wienerroither 79’) Unused Substitutes: Kresche, El Sherif, Klein, Degen, Schasching, Schiechtl, Kirchberger, Eder, England: Earps, Bronze (Daly 84’), Bright, Williamson (c) (Carter 79’), Greenwood, Walsh, Stanway, Toone (James 79’), Mead (Parris 62’), Hemp, Russo (England 62’) Unused Substitutes : Roebuck, MacIver, Zelem, Wubben-Moy, Nobbs, Stokes, Salmon Goals: Russo 7’, Parris 69’ Referee – Iuliana Demetrescu (Romania)
- Lucy Bronze | On Her Side
Thoughts on: Lucy Bronze Thoughts on: Lucy Bronze Bronze Back 13 September 2020 By Charlotte Stacey Gold. Silver. BRONZE. via Getty Images Being the only English player in history to win the Champions League three times, Lucy Bronze’s name is front and centre in this historical time in women’s football. Manchester City and England defender Lucy Bronze has gone from strength to strength over the past year. Her sheer talent and commitment to her cause has caught the attention of many, and has rightfully earned her the number two spot in The Guardian’s “100 best female footballers in the world”. Bronze is a spectacle to behold on a football pitch. Arguably the best right back in the world, Bronze possesses a fortitude and a downright grit that is perhaps not seen enough in the women’s game. Her physical presence alone is enough to worry even the most assured striker, and her pace ostensibly allows her to be in what seems to be two places at once. Bronze’s hankering to attack from the back has a tendency to keep not only her opposition, but her teammates on their toes, leading to the most remarkable pieces of quick gameplay. Her fast paced, and somewhat ‘risky’, play drives her forward, causing her to completely dominate the right side and threaten in dangerous positions. Bronze quite honestly is a machine; an absolute force to be reckoned with, and a player to be challenged at peril. Alex Grimm Yet, where her attack prevails, her defence does not suffer. Bronze has no problem with quite literally throwing herself into position to block a loose ball, or to tackle a counterattack. Her personal obligation to defending her goal, and ultimately her team, is clearly of the utmost importance, and is what sets her apart from others. Bronze is not afraid to push herself towards constant improvement, even in the most extreme of circumstances. Her ‘wonder goal’ in the World Cup showcased her ability to step up quickly when under pressure. The enormity of the moment did not seem to faze Bronze, and it was business as usual for the remaining minutes, serving as a reminder of her utter professionalism on a football pitch. But whilst she may be a ballsy character on the pitch, Bronze remains humble when the whistle blows. Unsurprisingly, Bronze has been nominated for, and won several awards this year, yet her modesty in achieving such feats demonstrates the heart of a true team player. Bronze often shies away from her individual wins, but there is importance in recognising your own successes, and Bronze should relish in celebrating her achievements. Whilst she did not seal the gold at the World Cup, there is plenty for Bronze to look forward to. With the Olympics and Euro’s fast approaching, Lionesses fans need not worry. Quite frankly, gold is good, but Bronze is better.
- CONTACT | On Her Side
Get in touch with On Her Side! Contact Us Enter Your Name Enter Your Message Enter Your Email Submit Thanks for submitting! Get in touch! If you have anything you'd like to share or promote within the growing world of women's football, make sure you get in touch and we'll get back to you as soon as possible! We'd love to feature - Graphics Photographs Articles Your stories Opinions Match previews, reports and analysis Merchandise and products
- England v Belgium: Nations League Preview | On Her Side
Everything you need to know ahead of England's Nations League matches against Belgium England v Belgium: Nations League Preview Back Everything you need to know ahead of England's Nations League matches against Belgium FA | Lionesses Thursday, 26 October 2023 By Paul Donegan England face a double-header against Belgium in the UEFA Women’s Nations League A over the next week. They first meet at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on Friday evening and then again in Leuven, Belgium on Tuesday when I am sure the Lionesses hope they won’t face any shocks or surprises or put on a horror show on Halloween. Last month, England got their Nations League campaign off to a mixed start with a 2-1 win over Scotland but then suffered a last-minute 1-2 defeat away to the Netherlands. They are currently third in the group. Belgium are top of the group and undefeated having beaten the Netherlands 2-1 at home and then drew 1-1 against Scotland at Hampden Park when they conceded a stoppage time equaliser. Sarina Wiegman named both Manchester City’s goalkeeper Khiara Keating and Tottenham Hotspur’s (on loan from Manchester United) attacking midfielder Grace Clinton in the senior Lionesses squad for the first time after they had great starts to the domestic season. When speaking to the media about them after the squad announcement, Wiegman said "I want to see how they relate to the other players in the squad and for them to show what they can do. They performed really well. We saw them also in the U23s. Now at the highest level they have shown performances. It's exciting for them and good to see for us too." Also recalled after injuries are Fran Kirby and Keira Walsh, with Kirby being named in the squad for the first time since February (though she withdrew then) and looking to make her first appearance for the national side in just over a year. Wiegman remarked "Of course it's very nice Fran is back on the pitch and she's fit and healthy" and noted that she has been playing well for Chelsea since coming back after knee surgery that saw her miss the World Cup. The Lionesses manager also said it was nice to have Walsh back after a calf injury kept her out of the September games. In her news conference ahead of Friday’s game, Wiegman announced that Lauren James is not available for either game against Belgium after picking up a concussion injury in training and will return to Chelsea. Lotte Wubben-Moy is back on the pitch and will be assessed before the match, Wiegman also confirmed. The Belgian Red Flames long serving head coach Ives Serneels has named some familiar Women’s Super League names in their squad including Brighton & Hove Albion’s on loan from Chelsea goalkeeper Nicky Evrard, Everton’s Justine Vanhaevermaet, Yana Daniels of Liverpool and Leicester City’s Janice Cayman. Former Manchester City forward Tessa Wullaert is the sides captain and record goalscorer with 75 goals. The Lionesses and the Red Flames have met a couple of times over the last 18 months. In June 2022, England beat Belgium 3-0 in Wolverhampton in a pre-Euro friendly. The goals on that warm summer evening came from Chloe Kelly, Rachel Daly and an own goal from Evrard. In February this year, the two sides played each other in the Arnold Clark Cup in Bristol with the Lionesses winning 6-1 as they won that iconic cup again. Kelly and Leah Williamson scored twice that night with the other goals coming from Lucy Bronze and a Julie Biesmans own goal whilst Elena Dhont got Belgium’s late consolation one. Both matches will be shown live on ITV4/ITVX with Friday’s kicking off at 7:45pm (BST) and Tuesday’s at 7:30pm (GMT). There is radio coverage of both matches on TalkSport2 whilst Friday’s can also be heard on Radio 5 Sports Extra.
- Brighton and Hove Albion | On Her Side
Team Information: Brighton and Hove Albion Brighton and Hove Albion Website https://www.brightonandhovealbion.com/teams/womens-team Manager Hope Powell CBE - ENG Captain Danielle Bowman Brighton and Hove Albion Emily Simpkins Photographer: Girls on the Ball Inessa Kaagman and Ellie Brazil Photographer: Girls on the Ball Brighton and Hove Albion 1/6 Squad Player Position Number Nationality DOB Megan Walsh GK 1 ENG 12/11/1994 Fran Stenson (on loan from Arsenal) GK TBC ENG 27/04/2001 Frankie Angel GK 25 ENG Fliss Gibbons DF 3 ENG 09/07/1994 Danielle Kerkdijk DF 5 NED 01/05/1996 Maya Le Tissier DF 6 ENG 18/04/2002 Emma Koivisto DF 12 FIN 25/09/1994 Victoria Williams DF 20 ENG 05/04/1999 Danielle Bowman MF 4 ENG 31/10/1998 Aileen Whelan MF 7 ENG 11/08/1991 Megan Connolly MF 8 IRL 07/03/1997 Inessa Kaagman MF 10 NED 17/04/1996 Emily Simpkins MF 19 ENG 25/05/1990 Maisie Symonds MF 24 ENG 02/02/2003 Kayleigh Green FW 15 WAL 22/03/1988 Ellie Brazil FW 16 ENG 10/01/1999 Katie Robinson FW 22 ENG 08/08/2002 Lee Guem-min FW 9 KOR 07/04/1994 Rinsola Babajide (on loan from Liverpool) FW 11 ENG 17/06/1998 Danielle Carter FW 18 ENG 10/05/1993 Libby Bance FW 32 ENG 23/07/2003 Ground The People's Pension Stadium, Crawley RH11 9RX
- Team GB: Quarter Finals Booked | On Her Side
Team GB secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the Olympics with a 1-0 win over host nation Japan. Team GB News Team GB: Quarter Finals Booked Team GB secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the Olympics with a 1-0 win over host nation Japan. Reuters 24 July 2021 By Joshua Bunting Following the win over Chile Hege Riise knew a win would send her side into the last eight of the competition. Team GB created the first opportunity in the 17th minute after a quick passage of play when Lucy Bronze crossed for Ellen White who flicked the ball out to Sophie Ingle before her shot was blocked and put behind for a corner that came to nothing in the end. Leah Williamson then made a good block on 29 minutes as Honoka Hayashi stepped onto a poor pass before fizzing a shot in but the Arsenal defender did well to make the block before Lucy Bronze took the pressure off winning a goal-kick. Japan then started to take control of the game as Mina Tanaka received the ball on the edge of the area before turning quickly and cracking her effort wide of the right hand post. On 42 minutes Williamson played a superb pass into Lauren Hemp taking the Japanese defence out before the wingers cross aiming for Ellen White was over-hit and sailed wide for a goal-kick. It wasn't a first half that will live long in the memory with not many chances being created and with Japan keeping a good team-shape and frustrating Team GB in midfield. Hege Riise's side started the second half well moving the ball quicker along with making a tactical change moving Kiera Walsh higher up the pitch. Williamson on 58 minutes met a corner before flicking it over the defenders head but was prevented getting a shot away by a good challenge from Risa Shimizu. A minute later Riise then thought it was time for a change as Caroline Weir came on for Sophie Ingle meaning that Walsh dropped back allowing Weir to push higher up the pitch. In a game limited with talking points it was Walsh who tried her luck on 70 minutes as she cut inside before unleashing a strike wide of the target. However Team GB did take the lead on 74 minutes when Kim Little turned away from danger before playing the ball out to Bronze who crossed perfectly for White to head into the net to break the deadlock. Riise then made further changes as Rachel Daly, Georgia Stanway and Jill Scott all came on replacing Nikita Parris, Little and Lauren Hemp. Team GB had the final opportunity of the game as Weir clipped a free-kick over the wall before the ball landed on the roof of the net. Team GB will play their final match of Group E against Canada on Tuesday 27th July at 12pm (BST). Team GB: Roebuck, Bronze, Williamson, Houghton, Stokes, Walsh, Ingle (Weir 59'), Parris (Daly 76') Little (C) (Scott 88'), Hemp (Stanway 88'), White
- Leicester City | On Her Side
A quick guide to Leicester City who compete in the Women's Super League. Leicester City Website https://www.lcfc.com/women Manager Lydia Bedford - ENG Captain Sophie Barker Squad Leicester City Badge Square Natasha Flint Photographer: Girls on the Ball Sophie Howard Photographer: Girls on the Ball Leicester City Badge Square 1/6 Player Position Number Nationality DOB Demi Lambourne GK 1 ENG 30/04/1996 Kirstie Levell GK 28 ENG 07/01/1997 Sophie Harris GK 48 ENG 25/08/1994 Sam Tierney DF 3 ENG 08/10/1998 Abbie McManus DF 5 ENG 14/01/1993 Georgia Broughman DF 6 ENG 10/03/1996 Esmee de Graaf DF 14 NED 02/08/1997 Sophie Howard DF 15 SCO 17/09/1993 Ashleigh Plumptre DF 22 ENG 08/05/1998 Jemma Purfield DF 23 ENG 21/02/1997 Molly Pike MF 8 ENG 22/01/2001 Charlie Devlin MF 10 ENG 23/02/1998 Sophie Barker MF 18 ENG 25/12/1990 Shannon O'Brien MF 27 ENG 05/10/2001 Connie Scofield MF 44 ENG 26/05/1999 Natasha Flint FW 7 ENG 02/08/1996 Jess Sigsworth FW 9 ENG 13/10/1994 Lachante Paul FW 11 ENG 06/08/2002 Paige Bailey-Gayle FW 17 ENG 12/11/2001 Abbi Grant FW 19 SCO 11/12/1995 Hannah Cain FW 21 ENG 11/02/1999 Ground King Power Stadium, Leicester LE2 7FL
- Team GB: who will make the cut? | On Her Side
A look at the potential Team GB squad list for the 2021 Olympics. Team GB News Team GB: who will make the cut? A look at the potential Team GB squad list for the 2021 Olympics. Girls on the Ball 23 May 2021 By Charlotte Stacey With the domestic season now over, attention turns to the Olympics where interim Lionesses head coach Hege Riise will select eighteen players to represent Team GB. The Olympics are set to take place in Tokyo between 23rd July – 8th August, yet as with everything over the past year unpredictability remains firmly intact. Riise was appointed to lead Team GB after heading up the Lionesses since Phil Neville’s departure in January. The Norwegian coach has the option to choose players from the four home nations, England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland for her limited squad. Due to the fast paced and unremitting nature of the Olympics, the FA insist that Riise’s selection of players must fulfil the following “crucial criteria”. • Physical condition - Team GB could play six games in seventeen days in warm temperatures and humidity. Players must also cope with hectic travelling schedules. • Mental toughness – dealing with the pressure of a prestigious global competition and potential setbacks throughout. • Versatility – with only eighteen places, players must be willing and able to adapt to positions that are not necessarily preferred. Riise must select a robust squad that can rotate with a degree of adaptability. It is for this reason that it should be considered the squad may not necessarily consist of players that are generally classed as the most prolific on paper. A key aspect of an Olympic squad is a unified team dynamic. A group that will gel to create the most coherent unit, not just the most individually gifted in each position. A careful balance must be sought between ‘big game’ international experience and dependable domestic form; versatility and singular positional excellence; consistency and rotation. Unfortunately, as is the cruelty of football, some players that would have perhaps been in contention are now not fit to partake. This is particularly true of Manchester City’s Chloe Kelly, whose dynamite season came to an abrupt end after picking up an ACL injury. Other players that are out of the running include Manchester United midfielder Hayley Ladd, Reading defender Emma Mitchell, Arsenal centre back Jen Beattie, as well as the ever-flexible Lisa Evans. Lionesses skipper Steph Houghton has also been out of action over the past couple of months due to an Achilles injury. Whether Houghton is in a position to participate remains to be seen, however if her recovery has run smoothly, one would expect Houghton to be a central figure within the squad. Below is a look at a potential selection for the Olympics with short justifications for each player. Goalkeeping Ellie Roebuck Roebuck is surely a show-in for the Olympics. At just 21, Roebuck is bold yet sensible in her decisions and clear with outward communication. Roebuck has kept thirteen clean sheets this season across all competitions alluding to her smart positioning between the posts. Simply, the Manchester City keeper remains as one of the finest in the domestic league, and with her growing international experience, Roebuck should be the number one pick. Sandy MacIver With a significant amount of game time behind her this season, MacIver is a keeper that should be carefully considered. MacIver presents a favourable outright shot stopping rate and a distributive passing ability that reflects her skill in being as well versed with her feet as she is with her hands. The Everton keeper presents a confident solidarity at the back and would be a suitable addition to the squad. Defence Lucy Bronze Bronze is recognised as being one of the most well-crafted players in the world in her position. The right back is high pressing, imposing and physical. Bronze likes to keep players on both sides on their toes and is known to be as lively in the attacking third as she is at the back. Evidently always striving for the very best, Bronze is responsible for every touch she takes and is quick to note and actively right a mistake. An open mentality that will be essential under such unremitting circumstances. Millie Bright Chelsea defender Bright is a steadfast figure at the back and encompasses every quality one would hope to find in a centre-back. Typically wise in her defensive actions, Bright is shrewd with a tackle and makes substantial interceptive movements. She is successful in applying pressure to divert attacking plays and forcing opponents onto the wrong foot. Bright also carries with her an exceptional ability to accurately play long balls that can spin a game on its head in seconds. Leah Williamson Williamson has played another successful season with The Arsenal. The centre-half boasts a first class first touch and excellent ball control, often developing on these with a keen passing eye. Williamson is organised yet progressive and possesses a capability to carry the ball across considerable distances. Another benefit of having Williamson in the squad is that she is also able to comfortably operate in a deep-seated midfield role which allows the option of a working double pivot. Steph Houghton One would expect Manchester City and England captain Houghton to be on the plane to Tokyo if she is fit enough to do so. Houghton has been a staple in the Lionesses defensive structure for a number of years and still has plenty to offer. Up until her recent injury Houghton’s domestic season had been impressive, the centre back showing off her stout commitment to keeping a clean sheet with her timely challenges and goal line clearances. Houghton is also an indirect free kick specialist and can pot the ball from the most incomprehensible angles. With ample international experience, Houghton’s leadership and calming presence should not be underestimated in a tournament of such prestige. Alex Greenwood Manchester City defender Greenwood has arguably just played one of the greatest seasons of her career. The left back has shown a promising attacking flavour in pressing along the wing but has also notably strengthened her defensive qualities after stints as a centre back. Greenwood is well known for her dead ball deliveries, especially her accurately placed corner kicks. Furthermore, Greenwood is naturally left sided and will be a key element in formulating a left side – right side equilibrium. Lotte Wubben-Moy Wubben-Moy has returned to The Arsenal with a physicality and strength that has punished the efforts of opponents. The centre-back is alert in closing down space and strong in standing her ground. Her growing ball playing ability is evident and she has even managed to write her name on the scoresheet this season. It is also worth noting that Wubben-Moy typically plays on the left, a useful trait to have in a right-side heavy defensive pack. Midfield Keira Walsh Walsh remains one of the most skilled defensive midfielders the home nations have to offer. The 24-year-old is a gifted visionary and uses this foresight to execute well placed balls into the attacking third. Walsh is well used as a ‘springboard’ in propelling play out from a deeper position whilst standing protective of her backline. Approaching games with a patient approach, Walsh bides her time in picking out the most advantageous pass, a crucial cog in goal and shot creation. Kim Little Widely regarded as one of the most difficult opponents to come up against, Little navigates the midfield with an untouchable quality. Little’s ball control is second to none and the Arsenal captain is able to dribble through oppositions effortlessly. Yet possibly one the most valuable aspect of Little’s game is her acute awareness of all that goes on around her, an intellect in knowing her teammates whereabouts and an ability to play to them in to their strengths. Little’s understated leadership will be paramount in keeping the core ticking. Caroline Weir Manchester City midfielder Weir has a wand of a left foot, there is simply no other way to describe it. Another player to bolster the left side, Weir is creative with her positioning and in her passing demonstrated by her ability to regularly assist toward scoring opportunities. However, Weir herself is no stranger to hitting the back of the net. Whether it is from a long-range set piece or a live attack, Weir is able to hit the target with the sauciest of strikes. Jordan Nobbs Nobbs is a recognised tyrant within the middle third. The Arsenal midfielder reinforces her sharp positioning with nifty footwork and a deft touch. Nobbs’ game is quick, intricate and at times daring. She is creative in her runs both on and off the ball, often making movements that are not spotted until it is too late. Nobbs is also renowned for her distanced belters that regularly rattle the back of the net. The addition of Nobbs typically results in a more fluid and dynamic midfield bridge, she is a useful tool to have handy when play falls static. Georgia Stanway At just 22 Stanway has cemented herself as one of the most versatile players in contention. Stanway has played in a number of positions both domestically and internationally and is a reliable source in rotation. Stanway displays an attacking mindset and is possibly best utilised as a high attacking midfielder, however she has demonstrated disciplined defensive positioning when task with holding further back. Naturally spirited, Stanway is not one to shy away from a challenge and will get herself stuck into any and all situations. Attack Lauren Hemp Hemp has established herself a ‘must have’ in international fixtures. The Manchester City winger dances along the wing, revelling in the pressure of beating out stiff competition as she goes. Hemp is an excellent transitional player and is able to find pockets of space to receive balls to counter an oppositional threat. Also known for her ungovernable pace and skill in placing a cross from either side, Hemp is a proven headache for defenders. Fran Kirby Kirby is likely to be many supporters first choice to be seated on the plane. The Chelsea forward has returned from her lengthy absence with a vengeance, providing a mammoth thirteen assists and twenty-two goals across all competitions. Kirby has played in a wider position this season but is just as deadly playing centrally in what one would suggest is her most favoured role as a number ten. She is quick, conscious, intelligent and significantly unselfish, drawing in defenders leaving others to dart into optimal positions whilst lines are stretched. Ellen White Manchester City forward White is an innate out and out number nine. An ability to put herself in the right place at the right time has seen White score thirteen goals across all competitions this season. White is cool, calm and collected, tidy and concise in tucking the ball away a with a clinical finish. Ever the grafter, White’s work rate is noteworthy, she is simply not one to sit tight or wait on the peripheral. White seeks the service she desires and runs tirelessly to receive this. Nikita Parris Instinctively attacking Parris is a player that is able to function well across the front line. The Lyon forward is arguably best placed in a wide area where she is able to decoy defenders by cutting on the inside with a quick shift of the ball. However, Parris can adapt her skillset to play centrally when needed and boasts a fine scoring ability. Parris is a workhorse and has no problem in chasing down a ball or tracking back to retrieve. Her positive energy drags a simmering momentum out of hiding. Rachel Daly Daly is a player that could quite literally play in any position on the pitch. Typically used as a fullback when playing internationally, Daly is arguably more usefully located much higher up the pitch. She is forward thinking with a flair in sparking an independently charged play, yet possesses a defensive savvy. Her willingness to perform out of position and dexterity across the field makes her a favourable selection. Reserves Niamh Charles Chelsea’s Charles is a player that can seemingly slot into any formation that is presented. Her first season with the Blues has been exceptional and she has shown a great amount of positional potential. Charles has played in both left sided and right sided positions and in both attacking and defensive roles demonstrating a clear and prepared adaptability. Ella Toone Manchester United midfielder Toone has finished her season in style, ending as the Red Devils’ top goal scorer and leading assistant. Toone is a tenacious and hardworking player who excels just slightly setback from the forward line. As a developing provider Toone is agile and quick witted in finding the space to create through central pathways. Erin Cuthbert Scotland international Cuthbert is better known as Chelsea’s inhouse pest. Cuthbert is stubborn and gritty and happily throws herself into the dirty work. Typically placed out wide, Cuthbert makes herself a bother to both those in front and behind her. She is persistent in tracking back and retrieving a lost ball and is tenacious in carrying said retrieval forward. Cuthbert is an all-round nuisance for oppositions, a player you certainly want on side. Sophie Ingle Wales captain Ingle acts as an added layer of protection in the defensive third. She is able to cover well and sweep away threats before they become a problem. However, Ingle’s excellence lies firmly in her passing ability. Ingle is able to accurately spray long balls which travel between lines, passes that subsequently play a role in creation. On top of this Ingle has also successfully played as a centre-back for Chelsea this season, another useful string to add to her bow. Team GB’s confirmed squad list is to be announced in late May.
- Lewes | On Her Side
A quick guide to Lewes who compete in the Women's Championship. Lewes Website https://lewesfc.com/teams/womens-1st-team/ Manager Scott Booth - SCO Captain Squad Lewes Lewes 1/1 Number Player Position Nationality Libby Copus-Brown MF AUS Ini Umotong FW NGA Ellie Mason DF GIB Emily Kraft FW IRL Amber Keegan-Stobbs FW ENG Hollie Olding MF ENG Reanna Blades MF ENG Sarah Brasero-Carreira MF ENG Shanell Salgado GK GER Grace Garrard DF Emma Thompson (on loan from Chelsea) FW ENG Caragh Hamilton MF Sophie O'Rouke DF/LB ENG Rhian Cleverly DF WAL Kallie Balfour MF ENG Maria Farrugia MF MLT Kate Oakley FW Shauna Vassell DF Freda Ayisi MF ENG Anna Grey MF Ava Hutson MF ENG Nicola Cousins DF/LB WAL Sophie Whitehouse GK USA Ellie Noble MF ENG Laura Hartley GK ENG Zoe Cross MF ENG Tatiana Saunders GK ENG Grace Riglar DF Emily Jones FW WAL Paula Howells MF ENG Amelia Hazard MF ENG Valentine Pursey FW Rebecca McKenna DF/RB NIR Izzy Dalton MF AUS Nat Johnson DF ENG Ellie Hack DF ENG Josie Longhurst MF WAL Léa Cordier DF BEL Lucy Porter MF ENG 1 Sophie Whitehouse GK IRL 3 Rhian Cleverly DF WAL 4 Amelia Hazard MF ENG 6 Ellie Hack DF ENG 7 Nat Johnson DF ENG 8 Grace Palmer MF ENG 19 Lauren Heria MF ENG 20 Libby Copus-Brown MF AUS 22 Josie Longhurst MF WAL 26 Emily Moore GK CAN Ground The Dripping Pan, Mountfield Rd, Lewes, BN7 2XA Rhian Cleverly
- Team GB: Victory over Chile | On Her Side
Success in Sapporo as Team GB beat Chile 2-0. Team GB News Team GB: Victory over Chile Success in Sapporo as Team GB beat Chile 2-0. via Team GB 21 July 2021 By Charlotte Stacey In their first match of the tournament Team GB took on Chile in Sapporo in a late afternoon kick-off. Head coach Hege Riise named a starting eleven largely formed of Manchester City players as only Kim Little, Rachel Daly and Millie Bright lined-up from Arsenal, Houston Dash and Chelsea respectively. England and Manchester City skipper Steph Houghton donned the armband ahead of other named captains Kim Little and Sophie Ingle. Rachel Daly was selected to fill as a left back over Demi Stokes who remained on the bench for this fixture. Georgia Stanway kicked off play in the Sapporo Dome and straight off the bat Team GB set out to dominate the South American side. Within minutes Team GB had dizzied Chile with a set of fast paced one-twos and intricate passages in and around the area. The first goal of the game came in just ten minutes through rapid build-up play between Stanway, Little and Lauren Hemp. Stanway fed the ball in towards striker Ellen White who took the chance but was ultimately ruled offside. As the score remained level, Team GB found themselves in a little hot water at the quarter of the hour mark as Chile lurked in the box whilst the Brits failed to clear. Danger averted, Team GB put themselves back on the front foot and notched their first goal of the tournament on the scoresheet mere minutes later. Hemp, as she would demonstrate throughout, made light work of Chile’s right-hand side, skipping past Nayadet Lopez Opaza with ease. Hemp pulled the pass back to Stanway who played in Lucy Bronze on the overlap. Bronze dinked in a lofty ball to Hemp who managed to get a head to it before White finished off, sinking the loose ball past Chilean captain Christiane Endler. With their confidence brimming Team GB continued to threaten throughout the first half, keeping possession and dictating flow. However, after a few well timed chances, the half concluded with the score remaining 1-0. No substitutions were made as the second half began, however Team GB’s wide players switched, with Hemp now operating the right hand side and Stanway, the left. Once again, Team GB’s midfield trio of Little, Caroline Weir and Keira Walsh directed a number of clever plays early in the half. Chile, however, begin to respond to Team GB’s dominance with a few smart movements of their own, yet no real threat was ever sensed. Back in the driving seat, Team GB bid for goal again after Stanway received a beautifully placed ball from Walsh. Taking a touch, Stanway hit the shot which was stopped, surprisingly sloppily, by Endler only to fall as far as White, who was challenged as she stretched for the ball. After a lengthy VAR check, White was again ruled offside, declaring both the penalty and Team GB’s already organised corner, void. Team GB’s second goal came with just over ten minutes to go. Birthed from a Daly throw-in, Team GB held possession on the edge of the area before Bronze crossed in her second assisting ball of the match. Bronze’s delivery was met by White who took the ball on the half volley to earn herself a brace. Wrapping up in a similar fashion as it started, Team GB remained dominant until the final whistle, ending their first match with a two-nil win. A pleasing performance from Team GB and a positive position to find themselves in as group stage games could prove to become progressively more difficult from here on in. Kim Little was arguably the most influential player on the pitch with much build-up play stemming from her constant clever movement and sophisticated passing. Little should also be noted for her ability to play in wide players and her partnerships with both Lauren Hemp and Georgia Stanway meant a lot of joy was derived from the wing. Speaking after the match, Hege Riise pinpointed Hemp as one of Team GB’s most crucial performers, “I am happy with the team performance and there will always be players that make something special. Today, on the left, Lauren did that. One v one all the time to get in and serve in the box.” Next up, Team GB will play hosts Japan on Saturday 24th July at 11:30am (BST). Team GB: Ellie Roebuck, Lucy Bronze, Steph Houghton (C), Millie Bright, Rachel Daly, Kim Little (90+1’), Keira Walsh (68’), Caroline Weir (89’), Georgia Stanway, Ellen White, Lauren Hemp (67’) Substitutes: Carly Telford (GK), Demi Stokes, Leah Williamson, Sophie Ingle (68’), Jill Scott (89’), Ella Toone (90+1’), Nikita Parris (67’) Goals: White (18’, 73’) Chile: Christiane Endler (C), Carla Guerrero, Francisca Lara, Nayadet Lopez Opaza (80’), Karen Araya, Maria Jose Urrutia, Yanara Aedo (77’), Yessenia Lopez (70’), Daniela Pardo, Daniela Zamora, Camila Saez Substitutes: Natalia Campos (GK), Fernanda Ramirez, Yenny Acuna (77’), Rosario Balmaceda (80’), Javiera Toro, Javiera Grez, M. Francisca Mardones (70’)
- Southampton | On Her Side
A quick guide to Southampton who compete in the Women's Championship. Southampton Website https://www.southamptonfc.com/women Manager Marianne Spacey-Cale - ENG Captain Rosanna Parnell Squad Southampton Square Lexi Lloyd-Smith Celebration Photographer: Ryan Asman Southampton Square 1/2 Number Title Position Nationality 1 Kayla Rendell GK ENG 2 Ella Morris DF ENG 3 Milly Mott DF ENG 4 Lucia Kendall MF ENG 5 Rosanna Parnell DF ENG 6 Laura Rafferty DF NIR 7 Lexi Lloyd-Smith MF ENG 8 Chloe Peplow MF ENG 9 Katie Wilkinson FW ENG 10 Rianna Dean FW ENG 11 Megan Wynne MF WAL 12 Sophia Pharoah FW ENG 14 Molly Pike FW ENG 16 Emma Thompson FW ENG 17 Emily Kraft FW IRL 18 Izzy Milne DF ENG 19 Alice Griffiths MF WAL 20 Atlanta Primus MF JAM 21 Jemma Purfield DF ENG 22 Beth Howard GK ENG 23 Megan Collett DF ENG 24 Paige Peake DF ENG Ground St. Mary's Stadium, Britannia Rd, Southampton , England, SO14 5RG












