The Lionesses top the table after beating Italy 2-1 in their second match of the Arnold Clark Cup A Rachel Daly double sees England thrill at CBS Arena Back The Lionesses top the table after beating Italy 2-1 in their second match of the Arnold Clark Cup via Lionesses Sunday, 19 February 2023 By Paul Donegan The Lionesses made it two wins out of two in the 2023 Arnold Clark Cup as they beat Italy 2-1 at the Coventry Building Society (CBS) Arena. Rachel Daly scored both of England’s goals whilst Sofia Cantore netted a controversial equaliser for Italy. Manager Sarina Wiegman said after England’s 4-0 win over Korea Republic on Thursday that she wanted to “try different things” during the Arnold Clark Cup and subsequently made nine changes to the starting eleven for the second match. The two that remained were Alex Greenwood, who was named captain, and Jess Carter who paired alongside Greenwood in central defence. Keira Walsh came back into the fold after missing the Korea Republic match with a stomach bug. Youngsters Jess Park and Katie Robinson made their first starts for the national side. Wiegman set the Lionesses up in their normal 4-3-3 formation. Ellie Roebuck came in to replace Mary Earps in goal. Maya Le Tissier started as right-back Niamh Charles on the left. Walsh played as a defensive midfielder with Coombs in front of her and Park playing in the number 10 role. Lauren Hemp and Robinson played as attacking wide players with Daly as the furthest forward. England had a few half chances before Italy broke quickly in the 5th minute and Roebuck tipped a shot from Valentina Giacinti wide of the post. Daly was being a threat upfront for England and saw two efforts saved in quick succession. Italy looked dangerous on the break with Greenwood stopping one of them when she got to the ball first. Daly overhit a pass in the 31st minute as the game continued to lack any real chances at either end. A minute later, England took the lead when Robinson sent in a cross from the right-hand side that Daly headed into the net. The Aston Villa forward carries on her excellent scoring record this season, and an assist for Brighton’s Robinson on her first start. In first half stoppage time, Daly hit the crossbar with a header but offside flag was up anyway. Daly had the first chance of the second half but headed over two minutes into it. Robinson sent another cross into Daly in the 50th minute but this time the Villa forward put her effort over. Three minutes later, Jordan Nobbs, who had come on at half time, saw an effort deflected over. The Aston Villa midfielder had another effort shortly after but her strike was kept out by Laura Giuliani. Italy equalised in the 62nd minute when Cantore’s header was judged to have crossed the line by the assistant referee. But had the ball already gone out of play before the cross for the goal? The England players complained that the ball had crossed the byline but the goal stood. Daly was close to scoring again in the 70th minute but headed a corner narrowly wide. Daly did score her second a minute later to put England back ahead when she superbly headed in Lauren James’ cross. That was her fourth goal in the last four internationals. The Lionesses were almost causing themselves problems at the back before eventually clearing the ball. Daly got a great ovation as she was subbed off in the 81st minute and was later named Player of the Match. The attendance was announced which was 32.128, a record for any sporting event at the CBS Arena. Lotte Wubben-Moy got back to intercept as Italy looked dangerous going forward just as five minutes of additional time were announced. Annamaria Serturini sent a shot wide for Italy as they looked to equalise for a second time. Italy didn’t threaten again as England won 2-1 and continued their unbeaten run under Wiegman to 28 matches. Wiegman said after that she was “happy with the game and win, and that there were many different players on the pitch and that is what we want.” Wiegman said it was a good first half that was energetic before noting that England started the second half well before they struggled for bit. Wiegman commented she was very pleased with how the Lionesses reacted after Italy’s equaliser and it was good to learn. Regarding the Italian goal, she said we “have to keep going after the decision was made.” The England boss said there are no plans to start with two forwards at the moment and that both Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly are good strikers. Wiegman said the youngsters are doing well and impressed with how they dealt with today. She said players are “competing with each other as all want to go to the World Cup but also playing well as a team”. Wiegman noted it was nice to see the Rachel Daly/Katie Robinson connections. She also added that Emily Ramsey will miss the final Arnold Clark Cup match as has picked up an ankle injury. Wiegman praised the Lionesses ability to cope with a diverse range of threats and applauded her team and their strength in showing they can win against any opponent. The Lionesses final match in this year’s Arnold Clark Cup is on Wednesday 22nd February at 7:45pm (GMT) when they take on Belgium at a sold-out Ashton Gate in Bristol. The match will be shown live on ITV4 with coverage starting at 7pm. Line-ups England (4-3-3): Roebuck (GK), Le Tissier, Carter, Greenwood (c) (Wubben-Moy 63’), Charles, Walsh (Zelem 45’), Coombs, Park (Nobbs 45’), Hemp (Kelly 63’), Daly (Salmon 81’), Robinson (James 63’) Unused substitutes: Earps, MacIver, Bronze, Bright, Williamson, Stanway, Russo, Toone Goals: Daly 32’, 71’ Italy (4-3-3): Giuliani, Bergamaschi (Orsi 70’), Lenzini, Salvai, Boattin (Linari 45’), Giugliano, Galli (Caruso 56’), Rosucci (Greggi 79’), Giacinti, Girelli (c) (Cantore 56’), Bonansea (Serturini 79’), Unused substitutes: Schroffenegger, Baldi, Filangeri, Cafferata, Bonfantini, , Polli, Piemonte, Catena, Severini Goal: Cantore 62’ Referee – Ivana Projkovska Attendance - 32,128

A 21 player squad has been announced for the Lionesses' upcoming training camp. Lionesses Camp June 2021 Back A 21 player squad has been announced for the Lionesses' upcoming training camp. Girls on the Ball Thursday, 3 June 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Interim head coach Hege Riise has named a 21 strong squad for the six-day camp at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre commencing on Sunday 6th June. The squad consists solely of players chosen to represent Team GB in the upcoming Olympics, with the exception of Chelsea’s Carly Telford and Birmingham City’s Hannah Hampton, meaning the total number of goalkeepers onboard is five. Riise has been named as the coach that will lead Team GB through their Olympic campaign and so it stands to reason that she has taken the decision to use this time to further prepare this set of players for the conditions of the summer tournament. On her selection, Riise commented, “while this is purely an England camp, it felt sensible to really focus in now on preparations for the Olympics with the English players who have been selected for Team GB" Full Squad: GK: Karen Bardsley (Ol Reign), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City), Sandy MacIver (Everton), Carly Telford (Chelsea), Hannah Hampton (Birmingham City) DF: Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Steph Houghton (Manchester City), Millie Bright (Chelsea), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Demi Stokes (Manchester City), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal) MF: Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Jill Scott (Everton), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Fran Kirby (Chelsea) FW: Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Nikita Parris (Lyon), Ellen White (Manchester City), Ella Toone (Manchester United)

Team Information: Chelsea Chelsea Website https://www.chelseafc.com/en/teams/women?pageTab=players Manager Emma Hayes MBE - ENG Captain Magdalena Eriksson Chelsea Badge Square Magda Eriksson Photographer: Mia Eriksson Chelsea Celebration Photographer: Girls on the Ball Chelsea Badge Square 1/7 Squad Player Position Number Nationality DOB Zecira Muscovic GK 1 SWE 26/03/1996 Carly Telford GK 28 ENG 07/07/1987 Ann-Katrin Berger GK 30 GER 09/10/1990 Aniek Nouwen DF 3 NED 09/03/1999 Millie Bright DF 4 ENG 21/08/1993 Jess Carter DF 7 ENG 27/10/1997 Magdalena Eriksson DF 16 SWE 08/09/1993 Maren Mjelde DF 18 NOR 06/11/1989 Niamh Charles DF 21 ENG 21/06/1999 Jonna Andersson DF 25 SWE 02/01/1993 Alsu Abdullina DF 27 RUS 11/04/2001 Sophie Ingle MF 5 WAL 02/09/1991 Melanie Leupolz MF 8 GER 14/04/1994 Ji So-Yun MF 10 KOR 21/02/1991 Guro Reiten MF 11 NOR 26/07/1994 Jessie Fleming MF 17 CAN 11/03/1998 Erin Cuthbert MF 22 SCO 19/07/1998 Pernille Harder MF 23 DEN 15/11/1992 Drew Spence MF 24 ENG 23/10/1992 Bethany England FW 9 ENG 03/06/1994 Fran Kirby FW 14 ENG 29/06/1993 Lauren James FW 19 ENG 29/09/2001 Sam Kerr FW 20 AUS 10/09/1993 Jorja Fox DF 29 ENG 28/08/2003 Aggie Beaver-Jones (on loan to Bristol City) FW 33 ENG 27/07/2003 Charlotte Wardlaw (on loan to Liverpool) DF 34 ENG 20/02/2000 Emily Orman (on loan to Crystal Palace) GK 32 ENG 05/11/2002 Ground Kingsmeadow, Kingston Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT1 3PB

We look at three leftback options that could have been on Sarina Wiegman's radar, including Manchester United's Hannah Blundell England's Leftback Puzzle: Could Hannah Blundell Have Been the Missing Piece? Back We look at three leftback options that could have been on Sarina Wiegman's radar, including Manchester United's Hannah Blundell Getty Thursday, 1 June 2023 By Finley Chung With the squad named for the Australia and New Zealand Women’s World Cup, fever ahead of the tournament is starting to grip England which starts on July 20th 2023. On Wednesday (31st May 2023), Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman named her squad with notable inclusions such as Bethany England and Millie Bright, albeit the latter was a ‘shoe in’ if she recovered from injury in time, which she has. One area that left a bit to be desired was the full back area, specifically left back. The only recognised 'trade' full back in the squad, is Barcelona’s Lucy Bronze. It can be argued that Alex Greenwood is a left back for England, but she has been deployed as a left centre half in the majority of her 21 WSL appearances this season. There is also the elephant in the room for Rachel Daly, who played every single European Championship game at left back, but with 22 goals for Aston Villa this season, well… you can work out where she’ll be playing for yourself! Here at On Her Side, we’ve run the rule over three of the full backs that could’ve made the Lionesses World Cup Squad. Hannah Blundell One player on the list to have felt hard done by to not have a call up, former Chelsea and current Manchester United left back, Hannah Blundell. The four time WSL winner appeared in all of United’s 22 league matches this term along with 21 in her first season in Manchester showing remarkable levels of consistency since her move North in 2021/2022 with a total of 3,610 minutes played across the last two campaigns. The modern full back needs to be as effective going forward as they do sitting back and defending nowadays, and the Eastbourne born defender really has taken her forward play into another gear this term. Not only has she contributed to a goal and two assists in her games this season, she has actually accumulated 1.2xG (expected goals) from her 11 shots this season, with five of them hitting the target. Of course, along with popping up in the right place at the right time, passing is an increasingly important element, not just in the game in general, but in Wiegman’s system. Blundell’s passing range is something that she has really worked on, completing 87.3% of her 1,475 attempted passes this season with the aforementioned pass completion rate in 22/23 higher than in any of her other six WSL seasons. There is one slight issue with the passing that she has completed, that only 120 of them have been forward, ‘progressive’ passes. The Red Devils player has also been capped for England at senior level, albeit only three times and none since 2018. There is something else that Blundell has in her armoury, the knowhow to win. Despite all coming from her eight year, 161 appearance spell in West London with Chelsea, the full back won four Women’s Super League titles, two Women’s FA Cups, two League Cups and a Community Shield. Her performances at United this season also saw her pick up the Players Player of the Year for the 2022/2023 season. Speaking on her omission, Host of Devils United YouTube Channel and Podcast, Maisie said, “As a Lionesses ,as well as a Manchester United fan, I do believe that Hannah Blundell is missing from the team. Hannah Blundell has been fantastic this season, probably the most improved player at United this season for her defending and attacking abilities as a full back. "Right now the Lionesses team is very limited in that role. If [Jess] Carter was to pick an injury up, I feel it can disadvantage the team which could result in [Rachel] Daly moving to that role. Blundell would have offered the attacking and defence threat whilst playing in her natural role. She has played the most minutes there in all of the other left backs in the WSL so I believe it was an unfair decision to leave her out.” Founder of On Her Side, Charlotte Stacey added, “You look at Manchester United in the league this season, you look at where they are, how well they’ve played and realise that Blundell has played almost every match for them and she’s never really put a foot wrong. She’s got those attributes that you need to get forward and overload to support the wingers. "You’re looking at one of the better performing English fullbacks in the league, so she perhaps should’ve had a call up, or at least time with the national team this season.” Maz Pacheco Alongside the United fullback, two other options include Mayumi (Maz) Pacheco from Aston Villa and Everton’s Gabby George, granted the latter is currently ruled out through injury, but is thought to have been the ‘one' that Wiegman potentially wants for the left back position. Villa’s Pacheco has enjoyed a brilliant campaign for Carla Ward’s team, appearing in all 22 matches and clocking up over 1,959 minutes in 2022/2023. As touched on earlier surrounding Blundell, Pacheco has grabbed herself four assists this term and completed 78.2% of her1,236 attempted passes this term. The former Liverpool full back is also incredibly well disciplined, only picking up two yellow cards this season, a trait which is always seen as key in defenders in International camps. OHS founder Stacey also weighed in on Pacheco adding, "Maz Pacheco has been brilliant for Villa, she’s played every game this season. She’s forged a really good relationship with her left winger, with her defensive actions such as blocking and interceptions notable also. She’s certainly an option to be looked at in the future.” Gabby George Last on this list but by no means lest, is Everton’s Gabby George. She’s made 91 appearances in five years on Merseyside. Granted, this term was cut short by a hamstring injury she obtained at the end of April bit she has still clocked up 1,322 minutes this campaign. George can also mark two goals and two assists to her name this campaign also, including a stunner in Everton’s 3-2 victory over relegated Reading back in January, the same month she picked up the WSL Player of the Month Award. Along with George’s eye for goal, she is very much a forward thinker down the Everton left, completing 45 progressive passes and 31 progressive carries from left back this season. Football Journalism Student at University of Derby and Everton fan, Chloe Reynolds added on George, “Gabby George had an incredible season, it’s like she’s a totally new player, she’s rapid on the wing and always well positioned defensively, you could easily tell that since her injury, Everton were not the same side”. For the latter two on this list, Pacheco and George, they have chances to go to future tournaments for England, whereas as Blundell may only have a smaller international window. All in all though, for all Sarina Weigman has done right for England, it does feel that not taking a 'trade' left back to the World Cup, could come back to bite the Lionesses, especially if there is an injury to Jess Carter, Alex Greenwood or Niamh Charles.

Interim Lionesses manager, Hege Riise, has been named as the head coach for Team GB ahead of the Olympic games. Team GB News Hege Riise Named as Team GB Head Coach Interim Lionesses manager, Hege Riise, has been named as the head coach for Team GB ahead of the Olympic games. via The FA 8 April 2021 By Charlotte Stacey Riise will lead the squad to their second Olympics in Tokyo this summer. The Norwegian has a tall order in selecting her team with only a limited eighteen places up for grabs. Competition is hot for players in contention as Riise is able to select a cohort comprised of those from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The FA have listed three crucial criteria in regards to selection – • Physical condition - Team GB could play six games in seventeen days in warm weather, humidity. Players must also cope with heavy travelling schedules. • Mental toughness – dealing with the pressure of a prestigious global competition and potential setbacks during the throughout. • Versatility – with only eighteen places a, players available, players must be willing and able to adapt to positions that are not necessarily preferred. It is likely that the squad will largely be comprised of English names as this is the squad Riise is most familiar with. Veterans such as Steph Houghton, Jill Scott and Lucy Bronze, could very well find themselves on the plane to Japan. However, there are a large number of candidates hailing from the home nations that should not be overlooked. Scotland’s Kim Little is often regarded as one of the most difficult players to come up against in the world. Similarly Welsh midfielder, Jess Fishlock, brings with her a wealth of experience in navigating some of the most prolific oppositions. Others in contention could include Scots Erin Cuthbert, Caroline Weir and Lisa Evans, all of whom continue to impress in the Women’s Super League. Wales captain and Chelsea’s springboard holding midfielder, Sophie Ingle, and North Carolina Courage bound Welsh midfielder, Angharad James, may also make the cut. Everton and Northern Ireland international, Simone Magill, could also be on the shortlist. Riise will be assisted by Canadian bronze medallist, Rhian Wilkinson, with another coach set to be named soon. The squad is expected to be announced in early May. Four other players will travel with the team as reserves.

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 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

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

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.

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

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’)

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