Women's Super League review: Arsenal and Everton impress on opening weekend

Arsenal and Everton enjoyed big wins on the opening weekend of the new Women's Super League season, whilst champions Chelsea were held to a draw by Manchester United.

A Jill Roord hat-trick and two for Vivianne Miedema helped Arsenal to a 6-1 victory against Reading. Former Gunner Danielle Carter scored the Royals' consolation on her debut, whilst Jess Fishlock also made her first appearance in a Reading shirt (even though the shirt in question had 'Fischlock' printed on the back). 

Everton were equally as impressive, slotting into second place in the early table thanks to a 4-0 demolition of Bristol City. Big summer signing Valerie Gauvin grabbed a goal in injury time but two strikes for captain Lucy Graham following Simone Magill's opener had already done the damage.

Chelsea were hoping to lay down an early marker in the defence of their title and took the lead against United through Sam Kerr. But even the introduction of world-record signing Pernille Harder failed to prevent a determined United fightback, Leah Galton popping up with the equaliser with 11 minutes to go.

An understrength Birmingham City side could only name four substitutes on the bench for their trip to Brighton. Megan Connolly scored the opener on the hour and then set up debutant Inesa Kaagman a few moments later in a 2-0 victory for the Seagulls.

Sunday's remaining match saw Spurs and West Ham play out a 1-1 draw. Tottenham were unfortunate not to lead at half-time after Kit Graham twice hit the woodwork. The home side did eventually go in front when Grace Fisk headed into her own net, but the lead lasted just four minutes before Adriana Leon levelled for the Hammers.

On Saturday, Manchester City showed Aston Villa just how difficult life will be in the Women's Super League with a straightforward 2-0 victory at Villa Park.