WSL Back with a Bang

Arguably the most anticipated Women’s Super League season ever kicked-off in suitably spectacular fashion on Friday night. 

An early red card, two goals from a Euro master and a statement of intent from one of the pre-season favourites. 

After the wonderful summer of European glory for English football, the WSL is generating more interest than ever and a trip to last season’s runners-up was a hugely daunting task for Brighton & Hove Albion. 

The Seagulls faced an Arsenal side packed with international class and the worst possible start arrived when Emma Kulberg was dismissed for a professional foul on Stina Blackstenius on seven minutes, although the decision did seem a little harsh, as the collision was probably accidental. 

The Gunners understandably laid siege and Brighton held out until the half-hour, when home captain Kim Little finished in style from 12 yards. The win was effectively sealed five minutes into the second half, when Blackstenius turned on the edge of the box and rifled a sweet strike into the top corner. 

It was then over to Beth Mead, Player of the Tournament from Euro 2022, who exchanged passes with Vivianne Miedema before steering a confident finish into the bottom corner. Mead doubled her tally with the final goal of the night on 83 minutes, brilliantly jinking past a Brighton defender before slamming home the shot. 

The goals were high quality, the endeavour from Brighton exemplary and a sold-out Meadow Park embraced the WSL return with the enthusiasm that reminded us of a great summer. 

Today’s action sees Manchester United host Reading and then four further games on Sunday, with Manchester City travelling to Aston Villa, Leicester City v Tottenham, West Ham welcome Everton and champions Chelsea are away to Liverpool. 

Enjoy!