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London City Demonstrate Progress Despite Loss

Should Jocelyn Prêcheur needed an example of how far his team have advanced in recent weeks, Saturday's match against Chelsea provided just that. It ended in a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, but his side performed admirably at their opponent's ground and posed multiple challenges for their opponents. London City commanded nearly half the ball – perhaps above expectations – and registered the equal amount of shots on target (three), with a key attacker providing a particular threat running in behind. “Compared to earlier in the season when we faced other leading teams, it was really good,” the coach said. “What I like is that we start to see a cohesive unit – this was the primary objective. We observed a team that protected and attacked as one. We must continue to improve.”

Liverpool ‘Will Keep Fighting’

The Reds' manager, Gareth Taylor, delivered a rallying call to the squad as the wait for their first points persists. Following a further loss, on this occasion 2-1 at the hands of Tottenham, he stated: “We must battle through it. The message is evident. The team is striving tirelessly to transform this into a improved position but it requires a bit of time and backing from everyone. Unfortunately, at the moment, we’re getting knocked, but we will keep fighting.” Superficially, it was an even encounter at Brisbane Road – with comparable ball control, chances created and opportunities – but after securing an early lead, the away side played without any real bite as Tottenham executed a comeback. It was another concerning example of the Reds’ propensity to fade in matches, surely the main focus for the coach to address if he is to reverse their form.

Kirby and Seike Plug Michelle Agyemang Gap

Brighton proved they can cope without their temporary forward Michelle Agyemang, despite suffering a defeat to the Red Devils. The forward was declared unavailable for the campaign last week after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament while playing for the national team. There was some concern about the team's response, but the experienced forward and the Japanese international proved they are more than capable of compensating for the goals by scoring in the 3-2 defeat. “We responded quite well to start,” the Seagulls' head coach, Dario Vidosic, remarked. “We improved into the game, we applied our pressing more effectively. Increasingly optimistic, once more. We could have added a couple more goals in the second half. Against a strong defensive unit, to have the chances we managed today was encouraging, but we must become more clinical.”

Rehanne Skinner Finds Positives After Loss at Manchester City

Rehanne Skinner could take positives from her team's display against Manchester City, despite a single-goal loss. Although the Hammers, bottom on goal differential, have not secured a point, they adopted a attacking mindset and did not shy away from attacking their opponents. A lack of ruthlessness was West Ham’s undoing at the Joie Stadium but it is only a question of time before they achieve a positive result. “It's frustrating we’ve not taken something out of it, and considering all the minutes the players have had during the international break the attitude and determination from the players [was excellent], and the fortitude as well,” the manager noted. “We must change our fortunes.”

Everton Escape Self-Sabotage with Gago Brace

A 94th-minute equaliser by Kelly Gago rescued the team's reputation as they shared the result in a high-scoring encounter at Aston Villa. The French forward opened the scoring with her first goal of the season after a strong Toffees start. Aston Villa drew level just before the break. The remaining period was action-packed, as both teams capitalized of the opponent's porous defence. An unfortunate deflection by the defender tilted the pendulum Villa’s favor, putting them in the lead, but the scorer came to Everton’s aid after Brian Sørenson’s side had failed to capitalise on several chances. The team's run without a league victory now extends to six matches.

Duo’s Magic Helps Arsenal Rediscover Form

Arsenal secured their third consecutive win in all competitions as the Swedish striker scored twice and Alessia Russo contributed one more in a comprehensive win of Leicester. It was a another beginning of the campaign for the attacker, who set up her strike partner to give the Gunners ahead, then, following a the defender own goal, ended her goal-scoring slump with two goals of her own. Arsenal have appeared not quite title contenders but a dominant opening period by the forward and her teammate caused havoc and revealed the slick and audacious Arsenal that most people anticipate given the squad's quality. “There were fresh combinations on the pitch in this match as well, so that requires time to gel,” commented head coach, the boss, “but I think it did exceptionally, particularly in the first half.”

Women's Super League Standings

Pos	Team	P	GD	Pts
1	Chelsea Women	7	11	19
2	Man City Women	7	10	18
3	Man Utd Women	7	14	17
4	Tottenham Hotspur Women	7	1	15
5	Arsenal Women	7	10	14
6	London City Lionesses	7	-9	9
7	Brighton & Hove Albion Women	7	0	7
8	Aston Villa Women	6	0	7
9	Everton Women	7	-4	5
10	Leicester Women	7	-8	5
11	Liverpool FC Women	6	-9	0
12	West Ham Women	7	-16	0