WSL Key Highlights: London City Show Promise and Liverpool FC Vow to Continue Battling

London City Showcase Improvement Despite Defeat

Should Jocelyn Prêcheur needed an example of how far the team have advanced in recent weeks, the weekend's match against Chelsea provided just that. It ended in a two-goal loss to the champions, but his side impressed at their opponent's ground and raised several questions for the title holders. London City commanded 43% of possession – perhaps more than expected – and registered the same number of shots on target (3), with a key attacker providing a particular threat running in behind. “Compared to earlier in the season when we played other top-four opposition, it was very positive,” Prêcheur said. “The encouraging aspect is that we are beginning to witness a cohesive unit – this was my biggest challenge. We observed a team that protected and pushed forward as one. We still need to improve.”

Liverpool FC Vow to Persevere

The Reds' head coach, Gareth Taylor, issued a rallying call to the squad as the wait for their first points persists. Following a further loss, on this occasion by a single goal at the expense of Tottenham, he stated: “We have to fight our way out. Our focus is clear. The team is striving tirelessly to turn this into a better situation but it takes a bit of time and a bit of support. Sadly, at the moment, we’re getting knocked, but we are determined to persevere.” On the face of it, it was an even encounter at the venue – with similar possession, expected goals and scoring chances – but after securing an early lead, the away side played lacking intensity as Spurs executed a comeback. It was a further worrying instance of the Reds’ propensity to fade in matches, certainly the priority for Taylor to address if he is to turn their fortunes around.

Fran Kirby and Seike Fill Michelle Agyemang Gap

Brighton & Hove Albion demonstrated they can cope without their temporary forward Michelle Agyemang, even after losing to Manchester United. The forward was ruled out for the season last week after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament while playing for England. There was some concern about how Brighton would cope, but Fran Kirby and the Japanese international proved they are more than capable of making up the scoring output by finding the net in the 3-2 defeat. “The team reacted quite well to start,” Brighton’s manager, the boss, remarked. “The players got better as the match progressed, we got our pressure better. More positive, once more. We could have added a few additional goals in the second half. Facing a strong defensive unit, to create the chances we did today was good, but we need to be much better.”

Rehanne Skinner Takes Positives Following Loss at Manchester City

Rehanne Skinner found optimism from West Ham’s performance against the Sky Blues, despite a single-goal loss. Although the Hammers, at the foot on goal difference, have not secured a point, they adopted a attacking mindset and were not hesitant from taking on City. A lack of ruthlessness proved to be the team's undoing at the Joie Stadium but it is a matter of time before they get a positive result. “We’re disappointed we’ve not taken anything out of it, and considering all the minutes the players have had over the recent break the attitude and desire from the players [was excellent], and the fortitude as well,” Skinner said. “We must turn things around.”

Everton Avoid Self-Sabotage with Kelly Gago Brace

A 94th-minute equaliser by Kelly Gago rescued Everton’s blushes as they split the result in a six-goal thriller at Aston Villa. The French forward notched the first goal with her first goal of the campaign after a impressive Everton beginning. Aston Villa equalised shortly prior to half-time. The second half was end-to-end, as each side capitalized of the opponent's porous defence. An unfortunate own goal by the defender tilted the pendulum the home side's way, putting them 3-2 up, but Gago came to Everton’s rescue after the manager's side had failed to capitalise on multiple openings. Everton’s run absent a WSL win now extends to half a dozen games.

Duo’s Magic Helps The Gunners Find Form

Arsenal recorded their third straight victory in all competitions as the Swedish striker netted a brace and Alessia Russo contributed one more in a comprehensive win of Leicester. It was a another beginning of the campaign for Blackstenius, who assisted Russo to give the Gunners the lead, then, following a Sari Kees inadvertent strike, broke her goal-scoring slump with a double of her own. Arsenal have looked not quite championship challengers but a dominant opening period by Russo and Blackstenius created chaos and unleashed the slick and audacious Arsenal that fans anticipate given the team’s quality. “There were some new partnerships on the pitch today as well, so that needs to click,” commented manager, the boss, “but I think it did exceptionally, particularly in the opening 45 minutes.”

WSL League Table