The FAWSL has grown massively in it's 1st 5 season's attracting more media coverage, (albeit still not enough) it's fan base is growing even if the philosophy as shifted from the early days to encouraging family attendances to trying to pull support from the men's game. The club's competing in the FAWSL 1 are playing in bigger, better stadiums. Money has been invested into teams and that is enabling more and more players the opportunity to play the game on a professional basis.
Season 6 see's FAWSL 1 expand to accommodate 9 teams with a further 2 sides coming up from FAWSL 2 in 2016 to increase it to 10 across both divisions, 1 going down from FAWSL 1 this time around. The Continental Tyres Cup switches from a group based format to a straight knock out competition with the draws yet to be made. Let's take a look at the clubs competing in FAWSL 1 in 2016 listed in league order from 2015
Chelsea Ladies
Last Season - Champions 32 points, FA Women's Cup Winners
W=10 D=2 L=2 GF=30 GA=10 GD=20
Manager - Emma Hayes
Transfers
IN - Karen Carney, Rebecca Spencer (both Birmingham City Ladies), Bethany England (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Jade Bailey (Arsenal Ladies)
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| Karen Carney joins Chelsea Ladies |
OUT - Jenna Dear (Everton Ladies), Laura Coombs (Liverpool Ladies - season long loan), Marija Banusic (Eskiltuna United), Marie Hourihan (Manchester City Women), Atlanta Primus (Yeovil Town Ladies), Mille Farrow, Jodie Brett (Bristol City Women - both season long loans) Rosella Ayane (Bristol City Women - short term loan)
Having lost out of winning the FAWSL title on the final day of the 2014 season, Chelsea Ladies, held their nerve in 2015 starting the season well and never looked back as they went on to be crowned Champions for the 1st time. Manager Emma Hayes assembling a quality squad mixed with youth achieving it's potential and experience showing it's quality achieving the double by also winning the FA Women's Cup, as it made history being played at Wembley Stadium for the 1st time.
Will be amongst the favourites for the title again in 2016, Hayes is a shrewd operator when it comes to bringing in players, brought in the hugely experience Swedish international goalkeeper, Hedvig Lindahl last season, kept 6 clean sheets which went along way to achieving success. Whilst at the other end Korean International star Ji So-Yun no only scored goals but created plenty of chances for those around her. Millie Bright came to the club form Doncaster Rovers Belles and has done very well, whilst a transfer fee was paid to bring in Fran Kirby from Reading FC Women. Wasn't all about the new signings either with both Drew Spence and Hannah Blundell excelling in midfield and defence last season.
Were one of the early movers as the transfer window opened this time around with the announcement Karen Carney was joining the club from Birmingham City Ladies. Have brought in another Doncaster Rovers Belles favourite, like Bright a young player full of potential, Bethany England had a fine season in 2015 helping the Belles to promotion, will be interesting to see how Hayes utilises her on the pitch can operate anywhere across or behind a front 3, looks a very strong attacking line up especially when you add Gemma Davison and Eniola Aluko to the equation.
Another young player who will be a star of the future is Jade Bailey coming in from Arsenal Ladies gives Chelsea greater depth in midfield. Goalkeeper, Marie Hourihan has moved to rivals Manchester City Women, Hayes bringing in another keeper with huge experience in the FAWSL to back-up Lindahl, Becky Spencer arriving like Carney from Birmingham City Ladies. Have released a few young starlets, Jenna Dear and Atlanta Primus moving to new clubs whilst Millie Farrow, Jodie Brett and Rosella Ayane go out on loan to gain further playing with Bristol City Women. Laura Coombs joins Liverpool Ladies on a season long loan.
Prediction - Fully expect Chelsea Ladies to be contesting for the FAWSL title again in 2016 as defending champions good depth of squad.
Having lost out of winning the FAWSL title on the final day of the 2014 season, Chelsea Ladies, held their nerve in 2015 starting the season well and never looked back as they went on to be crowned Champions for the 1st time. Manager Emma Hayes assembling a quality squad mixed with youth achieving it's potential and experience showing it's quality achieving the double by also winning the FA Women's Cup, as it made history being played at Wembley Stadium for the 1st time.
Will be amongst the favourites for the title again in 2016, Hayes is a shrewd operator when it comes to bringing in players, brought in the hugely experience Swedish international goalkeeper, Hedvig Lindahl last season, kept 6 clean sheets which went along way to achieving success. Whilst at the other end Korean International star Ji So-Yun no only scored goals but created plenty of chances for those around her. Millie Bright came to the club form Doncaster Rovers Belles and has done very well, whilst a transfer fee was paid to bring in Fran Kirby from Reading FC Women. Wasn't all about the new signings either with both Drew Spence and Hannah Blundell excelling in midfield and defence last season.
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| Ji So Yun |
Were one of the early movers as the transfer window opened this time around with the announcement Karen Carney was joining the club from Birmingham City Ladies. Have brought in another Doncaster Rovers Belles favourite, like Bright a young player full of potential, Bethany England had a fine season in 2015 helping the Belles to promotion, will be interesting to see how Hayes utilises her on the pitch can operate anywhere across or behind a front 3, looks a very strong attacking line up especially when you add Gemma Davison and Eniola Aluko to the equation.
Another young player who will be a star of the future is Jade Bailey coming in from Arsenal Ladies gives Chelsea greater depth in midfield. Goalkeeper, Marie Hourihan has moved to rivals Manchester City Women, Hayes bringing in another keeper with huge experience in the FAWSL to back-up Lindahl, Becky Spencer arriving like Carney from Birmingham City Ladies. Have released a few young starlets, Jenna Dear and Atlanta Primus moving to new clubs whilst Millie Farrow, Jodie Brett and Rosella Ayane go out on loan to gain further playing with Bristol City Women. Laura Coombs joins Liverpool Ladies on a season long loan.
Prediction - Fully expect Chelsea Ladies to be contesting for the FAWSL title again in 2016 as defending champions good depth of squad.
Manchester City Women
Last Season - Runners-Up 30 points
W=9 D=3 L=2 GF=25 GA=11 GD=14
Manager - Nick Cushing
Transfers
IN - Jane Ross (Vittsjo GIK), Marie Hourihan (Manchester City Women), Nikita Parris (Everton Ladies - on loan last season), Kosovare Asllani (PSG), Megan Campbell (FSU)
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| Swedish International, Kosovare Asllani |
OUT - Natasha Flint (Notts County Ladies), Emma Lipman (Sheffield FC Ladies), Krystle Johnston (Sunderland AFC Ladies), Natasha Harding (Liverpool Ladies), Georgia Brougham (Everton Ladies), Alex Brooks (Everton Ladies - season long loan), Kathleen Radtke
They will say different of course, but the reality is the pressure is on Manchester City Women to deliver the FAWSL title this season. Their 3rd season since joining the top flight of women's football in controversial circumstances, bringing money into the game like it has never seen and with it a media storm that has undoubtedly brought the women's game further into the limelight. Inside that maelstrom the club itself has handled itself well not getting carried away with anything other that consolidation in it's 1st season, winning the Continental Cup an unexpected bonus. In their 2nd season finished 2nd behind Chelsea Ladies by 2 points to qualify for Europe. Will be going for the title this time around.
No surprise to see the club virtually replace it's entire FAWPL playing squad in 2 seasons, and have brought in alot of new players, several England International's over those 2 seasons the new squad is in place so this has been a relatively quiet transfer window for Manchester City Women. Have brought in Scottish International striker Jane Ross as well as making Everton Ladies, Nikita Parris' loan move permanent. One of the biggest names to arrive in the FAWSL is Swedish International star Kosovare Asllani from Paris St Germain which greatly improves the clubs attacking options.
Have retained the serves of their most improved player from last season, Isobel Christiansen taking up a role in central midfield along side Jill Scott did a fantastic job, earning herself a call up to the senior England squad. The side is starting to settle with several players now regular starters for England, Lucy Bronze amongst them who was unlucky not to be named in the All Star XI from the tournament in Canada.
Prediction - One thing I always look at is depth of squad is smaller than their rivals more than capable of mounting a title challenge expect them to be pushing for the top all season, but won't want too many injuries may just miss out, top 3 finish.
They will say different of course, but the reality is the pressure is on Manchester City Women to deliver the FAWSL title this season. Their 3rd season since joining the top flight of women's football in controversial circumstances, bringing money into the game like it has never seen and with it a media storm that has undoubtedly brought the women's game further into the limelight. Inside that maelstrom the club itself has handled itself well not getting carried away with anything other that consolidation in it's 1st season, winning the Continental Cup an unexpected bonus. In their 2nd season finished 2nd behind Chelsea Ladies by 2 points to qualify for Europe. Will be going for the title this time around.
No surprise to see the club virtually replace it's entire FAWPL playing squad in 2 seasons, and have brought in alot of new players, several England International's over those 2 seasons the new squad is in place so this has been a relatively quiet transfer window for Manchester City Women. Have brought in Scottish International striker Jane Ross as well as making Everton Ladies, Nikita Parris' loan move permanent. One of the biggest names to arrive in the FAWSL is Swedish International star Kosovare Asllani from Paris St Germain which greatly improves the clubs attacking options.
Have retained the serves of their most improved player from last season, Isobel Christiansen taking up a role in central midfield along side Jill Scott did a fantastic job, earning herself a call up to the senior England squad. The side is starting to settle with several players now regular starters for England, Lucy Bronze amongst them who was unlucky not to be named in the All Star XI from the tournament in Canada.
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| Isobel Christiansen with Arsenal Ladies Dan Carter (photo credit Kevin Richards) |
Prediction - One thing I always look at is depth of squad is smaller than their rivals more than capable of mounting a title challenge expect them to be pushing for the top all season, but won't want too many injuries may just miss out, top 3 finish.
Arsenal Ladies
Last Season - 3rd 27 Points, Continental Tyres Cup Winners
W=8 D=3 L= 3 GF=21 GA=13 GD=8
Manager - Pedro Martinez Losa
Transfers
IN - Fara Williams (Liverpool Ladies), Danielle Van De Donk (Koppabergs Goteberg), Katie McCabe (Shelbourne FC), Josephine Henning (PSG), Asisat Oshoala (Liverpool Ladies)
OUT - Jade Bailey (Chelsea Ladies), Siobhan Chamberlain (Liverpool Ladies), Holly Augustus (Lewes Ladies - loan), Chioma Ubogagu (Houston Dash) Rachel Yankey (Notts County Ladies - loan)
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| Fara Williams |
Finally it looks like Arsenal Ladies are coming out of a prolonged transitional phase has been a difficult couple of seasons as the club adapts to the new look FAWSL with more teams with a competitive budget muscling in on their long time dominance of the game. Have seen players depart and it has now been 3 season's without a league title. Pedro Martinez Losa came in last season and the club finished the season strongly capping it off with their 4th Continental Cup win in 5 season's.
Putting in a player of the match performance in that Final was Jordan Nobbs, having returned from a long injury lay off that affected her for much of the season. Arsenal Ladies finished 5 points behind leaders Chelsea and you have to wonder that has she been available would she have been the difference to earning points?
Haven't seen the player departures off previous season's a good start to rebuilding a squad capable of mounting a title challenge. Martinez Losa has added some Spanish flair to his side last season. Has brought in some steel to the midfield this transfer window, Fara Williams having just celebrated becoming England's most capped player ever is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world shielding the back line will allow Nobbs to bomb on more than ever. Dutch midfielder Danielle Van De Donk adds another dimension to the middle of the park whilst at the back German International, Josephine Henning joins the club. Nigerian International striker Assiat Oshoala is comfirmed as an Arsenal player on transfer deadline day having been granted a work permit after the club triggered a release clause in her deal with Liverpool Ladies. Injury stifled for 1st season in English football has yet to show what she can do although her talent is widely known, Arsenal Ladies will need a few more goals in the GF column in 2016 if they want to win the title.
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| Arsenal Ladies, Jordan Nobbs |
Prediction - Well I've already got 2 clubs gunning for the title so I might as well add a 3rd, do like the additions Arsenal Ladies have made if they link up well and stay injury free see no reason why they can't be back challenging for the title in 2016. Like Emma Hayes at Chelsea Ladies, Martinez Losa will be able to say all of the pressure is on Manchester City Women, true or not is another matter.
Sunderland AFC Ladies
Last Season - 4th 20 points
W=6 D=2 L=6 GF=24 GA=24 GD=0
Manager - Carlton Fairweather
Transfers
IN - Lucy Staniforth (Liverpool Ladies), Kylla Sjoman (Celtic Ladies), Rachel Pitman (DePaul University Chicago), Krystle Johston (Manchester City Women)
OUT - Sarah McFadden, Rebecca Salicki (both Durham Women FC), Rebekah Bass (Vestmanneyjar)
The 1st side to earn promotion to the top flight of women's football wining the newly formed FAWSL 2 the season before not many thought Sunderland AFC Ladies would start so well as they did, took the league by storm, could say surprise, but then we shouldn't have been surprised came into the FAWSL on the back of successive FAWPL Northern Division Championships, know how to win a league. Had a new manager in charge at the start of 2015, Carlton Fairweather, didn't tinker with the FAWSL 2 winning squad too much adding Brooke Chaplin and Victoria Williams. Beth Mead their star striker just 20 years old was the top scorer in FAWSL 1 last season scoring 14 goals. Helped Sunderland AFC Ladies get off to a good start then a purple patch in the middle of the season saw them in contention for the title, fell away at the end losing their last 3 league matches to finish 4th, nevertheless a great 1st season for the club in the top flight.
Added Irish International Stephanie Roche to their squad midway through the 2015. Fairweather has been low key in the transfer market again in the close season, bringing in 4 new faces, amongst those former Sunderland player, Lucy Staniforth who has missed two years of football with serious knee injuries. The midfielder will be hoping for an injury free spell and a dead ball specialist will add to Sunderland's attacking options. Wide player Krystle Johnston also joins having been released by Manchester City Women her pace and ability to cross is perfect for Mead who will no doubt be closely marked this season, but that is easier said than done.
Prediction - Their 2nd season in the top flight, teams know what to expect now, might be a tougher campaign however can't see Sunderland getting pulled into a relegation scrap mid-table I will say 6th.
The 1st side to earn promotion to the top flight of women's football wining the newly formed FAWSL 2 the season before not many thought Sunderland AFC Ladies would start so well as they did, took the league by storm, could say surprise, but then we shouldn't have been surprised came into the FAWSL on the back of successive FAWPL Northern Division Championships, know how to win a league. Had a new manager in charge at the start of 2015, Carlton Fairweather, didn't tinker with the FAWSL 2 winning squad too much adding Brooke Chaplin and Victoria Williams. Beth Mead their star striker just 20 years old was the top scorer in FAWSL 1 last season scoring 14 goals. Helped Sunderland AFC Ladies get off to a good start then a purple patch in the middle of the season saw them in contention for the title, fell away at the end losing their last 3 league matches to finish 4th, nevertheless a great 1st season for the club in the top flight.
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| Beth Mead top scorer in FAWSL 1 in 2015 with 14 goals |
Prediction - Their 2nd season in the top flight, teams know what to expect now, might be a tougher campaign however can't see Sunderland getting pulled into a relegation scrap mid-table I will say 6th.
Notts County Ladies
Last Season 5th 15 points
W=4 D=3 L=7 GF=20 GA=20 GD=0
Manager - Rick Passmoor
Transfers
IN - Natasha Flint (Manchester City Women), Maja Krantz (Linkopings), Megan Walsh (Everton Ladies), Angharad James (Bristol City Women), Aivi Luik (Melbourne City Women), Chelsea Weston (Birmingham City Ladies) Rachel Yankey (Arsenal Ladies - loan)
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| Welsh International midfielder Angharad James |
OUT - Jessica Sigsworth (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Alex Greenwood (Liverpool Ladies), Jules Draycott, Emily Roberts (both Sheffield FC Ladies), Desiree Scott (FC Kansas City), Dunia Susi
Natasha Flint has subsequently left the club her contract terminated by mutual consent on Weds 16 March.
Runners-up in both cup competitions last season with a 5th placed finish in the league I think another cup run will be their bast chance of picking up silverware this time around too. Have the funds available to bring players in but at the end of last season manager Rick Passmoor explained this wasn't as easy to do with other clubs able to make better offers and attract the players Notts County Ladies would like themselves to push on into the top half of the table.
Off the field chief executive, Luke Negus-Hill has stepped down with Matthew Alexander taking up the role. More bad news and as yet to see how it might affect the women's club. Ray Trew the chairman of Notts County FC and Notts County Ladies has put the men's club up for sale after poor form see's the club slip down the leagues and abuse towards his family from fans. Is looking for a buyer. Very passionate about the ladies club would expect it to be fine and stay involved.
Has seen players come and go as in previous seasons, players who soon become fans favourites departing after a season. England full back Alex Greenwood moving back to Merseyside to join Liverpool Ladies, whilst Desiree Scott returns to FC Kansas City after the Canadian International's contract expired. Jessica Sigsworth never got an opportunity to play for Notts County returns to Doncaster Rovers Belles, Emily Roberts on loan to Doncaster Rovers Belles last season moves to Sheffield FC Ladies. Whilst they are without Sophie Walton who is to have a baby.
Fans have been frustrated having seen other clubs snap up big names, have brought in Swedish International Maja Krantz who can operate in either defence or midfield, along with young goalkeeper Megan Walsh who will provide cover for Carly Telford. Left the rest of their transfer business till late, Angharad James who, Bristol City Women had announced wasn't rejoining them, comes into the squad. Were the busiest club on deadline day announcing the arrival of Australian defender Aivi Luik who has just won the W-League title with Melbourne City Women. Has been known for sometime that former Birmingham City Ladies right back Chelsea Weston has been on trial at the club, her signing was confirmed on transfer deadline day. A serious injury ruled her out of action in 2015 but was arguably the best defender in the FAWSL in 2014 and an England call up wouldn't have been far away. The coup of the day went to Notts County Ladies too as in the final minutes they brought in Arsenal Ladies legend Rachel Yankey on loan, with the London club confirming the signing of Oshoala. Feels like a new signing too as Notts County Ladies have there captain back in action after over 18 months out through injury, got married during that time and it's a welcome return for Sophie Bradley-Auckland.
Prediction - Hedging my bets at the top so doing the same at the other end of the table, not going to be popular with this opinion but I think Notts County Ladies will be battling it out at the bottom of the table, the 1st XI is strong no doubt it can compete Passmoor puts a side out that is hard to beat and if Yankey and Jess Clarke on the wings put the ball into the box for Ellen White they will be alright. Beyond the starting XI the squad isn't very big so it's bottom 3 for me 7th place.
Natasha Flint has subsequently left the club her contract terminated by mutual consent on Weds 16 March.
Runners-up in both cup competitions last season with a 5th placed finish in the league I think another cup run will be their bast chance of picking up silverware this time around too. Have the funds available to bring players in but at the end of last season manager Rick Passmoor explained this wasn't as easy to do with other clubs able to make better offers and attract the players Notts County Ladies would like themselves to push on into the top half of the table.
Off the field chief executive, Luke Negus-Hill has stepped down with Matthew Alexander taking up the role. More bad news and as yet to see how it might affect the women's club. Ray Trew the chairman of Notts County FC and Notts County Ladies has put the men's club up for sale after poor form see's the club slip down the leagues and abuse towards his family from fans. Is looking for a buyer. Very passionate about the ladies club would expect it to be fine and stay involved.
Has seen players come and go as in previous seasons, players who soon become fans favourites departing after a season. England full back Alex Greenwood moving back to Merseyside to join Liverpool Ladies, whilst Desiree Scott returns to FC Kansas City after the Canadian International's contract expired. Jessica Sigsworth never got an opportunity to play for Notts County returns to Doncaster Rovers Belles, Emily Roberts on loan to Doncaster Rovers Belles last season moves to Sheffield FC Ladies. Whilst they are without Sophie Walton who is to have a baby.
Fans have been frustrated having seen other clubs snap up big names, have brought in Swedish International Maja Krantz who can operate in either defence or midfield, along with young goalkeeper Megan Walsh who will provide cover for Carly Telford. Left the rest of their transfer business till late, Angharad James who, Bristol City Women had announced wasn't rejoining them, comes into the squad. Were the busiest club on deadline day announcing the arrival of Australian defender Aivi Luik who has just won the W-League title with Melbourne City Women. Has been known for sometime that former Birmingham City Ladies right back Chelsea Weston has been on trial at the club, her signing was confirmed on transfer deadline day. A serious injury ruled her out of action in 2015 but was arguably the best defender in the FAWSL in 2014 and an England call up wouldn't have been far away. The coup of the day went to Notts County Ladies too as in the final minutes they brought in Arsenal Ladies legend Rachel Yankey on loan, with the London club confirming the signing of Oshoala. Feels like a new signing too as Notts County Ladies have there captain back in action after over 18 months out through injury, got married during that time and it's a welcome return for Sophie Bradley-Auckland.
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| Notts County Ladies fans will be glad to see their captain back playing again |
Prediction - Hedging my bets at the top so doing the same at the other end of the table, not going to be popular with this opinion but I think Notts County Ladies will be battling it out at the bottom of the table, the 1st XI is strong no doubt it can compete Passmoor puts a side out that is hard to beat and if Yankey and Jess Clarke on the wings put the ball into the box for Ellen White they will be alright. Beyond the starting XI the squad isn't very big so it's bottom 3 for me 7th place.
Birmingham City Ladies
Last Season 6th 13 points
W=3 D=4 L=7 GF=7 GA=14 GD=-7
Manager - David Parker
Transfers
IN - Corina Schroeder (Liverpool Ladies)
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| Corina Schroeder |
OUT - Karen Carney Rebecca Spencer (both Chelsea Ladies), Christina Torkildsen (Coventry United Ladies), Danielle Hill (Blackburn Roves Ladies), Chelsea Weston (Notts County Ladies)
2015 was the 1st time since the inception of the FAWSL that Birmingham City Ladies have finished outside the top half of the table. Were only a game away from clinching their 1st ever FAWSL title the season before. Was a struggle last season but for a large part due to a lack of goals just 7 scored all season. Had Karen Carney out early on serving a suspension and injury, so too Kirsty Linnett, with Freda Ayisi a new signing at the start of the 2015 season getting herself sent off twice and missing matches early on whilst at the back lost right back Chelsea Weston to a long term knee injury on the eve of the 2015 season.
Are is a similar way to Arsenal Ladies and Everton Ladies before them a victim of the new 'wealth' that has come into the FAWSL, clubs with bigger spending power taking the game on can soon get left in it's wake. The club is fighting back and despite numerous rumours surrounding the clubs biggest stars just a handful have left in the close season, Becky Spencer and captain Karen Carney the most notable.
Lack of transfer activity seems to be a precursor for how poorly a club will fair the club did well PR wise to be candid with their fans as manager David Parker addressed them early on in the window to state it was unlikely the club would be doing any business bringing in players so it was a positive surprise when the club did announce during it's recent season launch event that they had signed German defender Corina Schroeder from Liverpool Ladies. During that launch event long serving player Emily Westwood was named as the new captain, with Kerys Harrop becoming vice captain. Have a new CEO in place Tim Andrews and work has been going on behind the scenes with the club going full-time and new partnership and sponsor deals in place with Adidas and EZE Group.
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| Melissa Lawley will be a key player for Birmingham City Ladies in 2016 |
Prediction - Is a similar position to Notts County Ladies the starting XI almost the same squad that challenged for the title two seasons ago beyond that though the squad is inexperienced, need more goals will they find them? Bottom 3
Liverpool Ladies
Last Season 7th 13 points
W=4 D=1 L=9 GF=15 GA=24 GD=-9
Manager - Scott Rogers
Transfers
IN - Laura Coombs (Chelsea Ladies - season long loan), Sophie Ingle, Caroline Weir (both Bristol City Women), Siobhan Chamberlain (Arsenal Ladies), Emma Lundh, Mandy Van De Berg (both Lillestrom SK), Natasha Harding (Liverpool Ladies), Alex Greenwood (Notts County Ladies), Shanice Van De Sanden (FC Twente)
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| Sophie Ingle joins Liverpool Ladies from Bristol |
OUT - Natasha Dowie, Becky Easton, Katrin Omarsdottir (all Doncaster Rovers Belles), Fara Williams (Arsenal Ladies), Libby Stout (Boston Breakers), Corina Schroeder (Birmingham City Ladies), Lucy Staniforth (Sunderland AFC Ladies), Asisat Oshoala (Arsenal Ladies), Ingrid Ryland, Line Smorsgard
In the space of a year Liverpool Ladies went from sneaking home to win their 2nd successive FAWSL 1 title to finish 2nd bottom in the league in 2015. Player departures and some long term injuries pushing a thin squad to it's limits, new players that came in not making the impact. At the end of the season manager Matt Beard announced he was leaving the club to take up the opportunity to become head coach of NWSL side Boston Breakers in the USA.
Liverpool Ladies fans would have been worried at the end of the season as they saw a host of favourites leaving the club, Williams, Stout, Dowie, Omarsdottir, Staniforth, Oshoala, Schroeder, Ryland and Smorsgard all leaving. Beard's assistant, Scott Rogers was named as his successor had to start by rebuilding the team. Liverpool Ladies were one of the 1st clubs to challenge Arsenal Ladies dominance with the men's club investing into the women's side and they have done so again have been very active during the transfer window.
Have brought in a new goalkeeper, England squad regular Siobhan Chamberlain. Welsh International captain Sophie Ingle comes in from Bristol City Women joining her in midfield will be Scottish U21 International Caroline Weir also at Bristol last season along with Laura Coombs coming in on loan from Chelsea Ladies. Natasha Harding joins from Manchester City Women. Alex Greenwood now an established member of the England squad bolsters the defence along with Dutch defender Mandy Van De Berg. Emma Lundh a Swedish International striker who was a Lillestrom with Van De Berg joins to strengthen the strike force along with Shanice Van De Sanden from FC Twente.
Prediction - Is a rebuilt team may take time to settle but then Liverpool Ladies built a team in 2013 and it won the title. Don't think this one is as strong although it does look good not quite at the same level as the sides predicted to finish in the top 3. I am going for a 4th place finish for Liverpool Ladies.
In the space of a year Liverpool Ladies went from sneaking home to win their 2nd successive FAWSL 1 title to finish 2nd bottom in the league in 2015. Player departures and some long term injuries pushing a thin squad to it's limits, new players that came in not making the impact. At the end of the season manager Matt Beard announced he was leaving the club to take up the opportunity to become head coach of NWSL side Boston Breakers in the USA.
Liverpool Ladies fans would have been worried at the end of the season as they saw a host of favourites leaving the club, Williams, Stout, Dowie, Omarsdottir, Staniforth, Oshoala, Schroeder, Ryland and Smorsgard all leaving. Beard's assistant, Scott Rogers was named as his successor had to start by rebuilding the team. Liverpool Ladies were one of the 1st clubs to challenge Arsenal Ladies dominance with the men's club investing into the women's side and they have done so again have been very active during the transfer window.
Have brought in a new goalkeeper, England squad regular Siobhan Chamberlain. Welsh International captain Sophie Ingle comes in from Bristol City Women joining her in midfield will be Scottish U21 International Caroline Weir also at Bristol last season along with Laura Coombs coming in on loan from Chelsea Ladies. Natasha Harding joins from Manchester City Women. Alex Greenwood now an established member of the England squad bolsters the defence along with Dutch defender Mandy Van De Berg. Emma Lundh a Swedish International striker who was a Lillestrom with Van De Berg joins to strengthen the strike force along with Shanice Van De Sanden from FC Twente.
Prediction - Is a rebuilt team may take time to settle but then Liverpool Ladies built a team in 2013 and it won the title. Don't think this one is as strong although it does look good not quite at the same level as the sides predicted to finish in the top 3. I am going for a 4th place finish for Liverpool Ladies.
Reading FC Women
Last Season - FAWSL 2 Champions 45 points
W=14 D=3 L=1 GF=61 GA=16 GD=46
Manager - Kelly Chambers
Transfers
IN - Amber Keegan-Stobbs (Washington Spirit Reserves),Kayleigh Hines (Oxford United Women), Mary Earps, Jade Boho-Sayo (both Bristol City Women)
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| Kayleigh Hines |
OUT - Eloise Wilson (Bristol City Women), Georgina Giddings (Millwall Lionesses), Bianca Bragg, Nikki Watts.
A fantastic season for Reading FC Women as they pushed Doncaster Rovers Belles all the way to win the FAWSL 2 league title finishing on almost identical records 4 goals better off in the GD column the difference. Had Fran Kirby on their books at the start of the 2015 season was in irresistible form scoring 9 goals in their opening 3 league matches. Kirby was to move on later in the season as Chelsea Ladies put in a transfer bid for the England starlet. Reading FC Women had proved they could go on without relying in Kirby's goals as she was out injured before the move Emma Follis a new signing herself from Aston Villa Ladies scoring the goals along with experienced Welsh International striker Helen Ward.
Achieving promotion to the top tier of women's football has seen Reading FC Women reward alot of the squad with full-time professional contracts and in comparison with others have done less in the transfer market letting a handful move on whilst bolstering their forwards line bringing in Amber Keegan-Stobbs who has been playing her football in the USA most recently with Washington Spirit Reserves before her return to the UK. Have also signed Jade Boho-Sayo who made an impact coming to and scoring for Bristol City Women last season.
Also joining the Royals Ladies for the 2016 is Kayleigh Hines from Oxford United Women, brings a little finesse to what can be quite a combative Reading FC Women midfield. A useful player to have in a set piece situation too a very good header of the ball a threat inside the opponents penalty box. Mary Earps recently returned from the La Manga tournament where she kept goal for the England U23's joins the club after a season with Bristol is a goalkeeper with a big future in the game and will provide stiff competition for Grace Moloney who has done a fine job between the sticks for Reading FC Women a dilemma there for manager Kelly Chambers.
Have also moved to a new home venue for the 2016 season will be playing their football at Wycombe Wanderers, Adams Park.
Prediction - It's largely the squad that won promotion has good quality throughout and will pick up points, whether it's enough to see them safe come the end of the season time will tell, need a good start, see them finishing in the bottom 3.
A fantastic season for Reading FC Women as they pushed Doncaster Rovers Belles all the way to win the FAWSL 2 league title finishing on almost identical records 4 goals better off in the GD column the difference. Had Fran Kirby on their books at the start of the 2015 season was in irresistible form scoring 9 goals in their opening 3 league matches. Kirby was to move on later in the season as Chelsea Ladies put in a transfer bid for the England starlet. Reading FC Women had proved they could go on without relying in Kirby's goals as she was out injured before the move Emma Follis a new signing herself from Aston Villa Ladies scoring the goals along with experienced Welsh International striker Helen Ward.
Achieving promotion to the top tier of women's football has seen Reading FC Women reward alot of the squad with full-time professional contracts and in comparison with others have done less in the transfer market letting a handful move on whilst bolstering their forwards line bringing in Amber Keegan-Stobbs who has been playing her football in the USA most recently with Washington Spirit Reserves before her return to the UK. Have also signed Jade Boho-Sayo who made an impact coming to and scoring for Bristol City Women last season.
Also joining the Royals Ladies for the 2016 is Kayleigh Hines from Oxford United Women, brings a little finesse to what can be quite a combative Reading FC Women midfield. A useful player to have in a set piece situation too a very good header of the ball a threat inside the opponents penalty box. Mary Earps recently returned from the La Manga tournament where she kept goal for the England U23's joins the club after a season with Bristol is a goalkeeper with a big future in the game and will provide stiff competition for Grace Moloney who has done a fine job between the sticks for Reading FC Women a dilemma there for manager Kelly Chambers.
Have also moved to a new home venue for the 2016 season will be playing their football at Wycombe Wanderers, Adams Park.
Prediction - It's largely the squad that won promotion has good quality throughout and will pick up points, whether it's enough to see them safe come the end of the season time will tell, need a good start, see them finishing in the bottom 3.
Doncaster Rovers Belles
Last Season - FAWSL 2 Runners-Up 45 points
W=14 D=3 L=1 GF=57 GA=15 GD=42
Manager - Glen Harris
Transfers
IN - Natasha Dowie, Becky Easton, Katrin Omarsdottir (all Liverpool Ladies), Jessica Sigsworth (Notts County Ladies), Carla Humphrey (Arsenal Ladies - season long loan), Anna Moorhouse (Durham Women FC) Alexandra Gummer (Adelaide United)
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| Natasha Dowie, not worn that shirt enough, will she score the goals for Doncaster Rovers Belles |
OUT - Lyndsey Cunningham (Nottingham Forest Ladies), Bethany England (Chelsea Ladies), Nicole Dale (Aston Villa Ladies), Sophie Stamp (Hull City Ladies), Jade Lorton-Radburn (Keynsham Town Ladies) Lauren Cresswell, Mollie Johnson, Ashleigh Mills (retired due to illness)
Operation Promotion was achieved at the end of last season as Doncaster Rovers Belles returned to the top flight of women's football in England after a 2 season absence. Were slogging it out with Reading FC Women all the way just 4 goals less meant a runner-up place instead of Champions, but promotion was achieved and the club having stuck together since their 'relegation' have been rewarded as behind the scenes the club has been moving forwards too. A brand new state of the art training facility to be built as well as the squad becoming full time professionals with the club recently announcing an all female board.
Courtney Sweetman-Kirk had the most prolific goal scoring form across the whole of the FAWSL in 2015 scoring 25 goals. A club with a rich history they are looking to return to glory building off the field and strengthening their playing squad as they look to compete in the top flight in 2016. Showed their intent during the transfer window bringing in a trio of stars from Liverpool Ladies the most prominent being striker Natasha Dowie like Sweetman-Kirk a number 9 in a modern game where everyone seems to want to be number 10. Along with Dowie comes Icelandic International, Katrin Omarsdottir, who is very much in a different mould to the other midfielders Doncaster Rovers Belles have on their books, something manger Glen Harris is very good at doing, vastly experienced in the women's game making sure each player brings a different dimension to the team. Last of the trio is ex Belles player Becky Easton who will strengthen the back line a long playing career must diet on Duracell Bunnies still going strong.
A fans favourite returns to the club with Jessica Sigsworth back on their books sometimes too selfless for her own good creates plenty of goal scoring opportunities for her team mates. Another youngster with huge potential arrives on loan for the season Carla Humphrey from Arsenal Ladies whilst Anna Moorhouse comes in as goalkeeping cover for Nicola Hobbs. Did think the squad might be a little short of left sided players but this was addressed in the very last minute of transfer deadline day with Australian, Andrea Gummer who has been on trial with the club signing on for 2016.
Prediction - I said it when Dowie and Sigsworth joined along with Sweetman-Kirk and Sue Smith in attack that if Doncaster Rovers Belles didn't score goals in FAWSL 1 now then they never would and think they will be clear of the bottom pushing on into mid-table a 5th place finish is my prediction.
Operation Promotion was achieved at the end of last season as Doncaster Rovers Belles returned to the top flight of women's football in England after a 2 season absence. Were slogging it out with Reading FC Women all the way just 4 goals less meant a runner-up place instead of Champions, but promotion was achieved and the club having stuck together since their 'relegation' have been rewarded as behind the scenes the club has been moving forwards too. A brand new state of the art training facility to be built as well as the squad becoming full time professionals with the club recently announcing an all female board.
Courtney Sweetman-Kirk had the most prolific goal scoring form across the whole of the FAWSL in 2015 scoring 25 goals. A club with a rich history they are looking to return to glory building off the field and strengthening their playing squad as they look to compete in the top flight in 2016. Showed their intent during the transfer window bringing in a trio of stars from Liverpool Ladies the most prominent being striker Natasha Dowie like Sweetman-Kirk a number 9 in a modern game where everyone seems to want to be number 10. Along with Dowie comes Icelandic International, Katrin Omarsdottir, who is very much in a different mould to the other midfielders Doncaster Rovers Belles have on their books, something manger Glen Harris is very good at doing, vastly experienced in the women's game making sure each player brings a different dimension to the team. Last of the trio is ex Belles player Becky Easton who will strengthen the back line a long playing career must diet on Duracell Bunnies still going strong.
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| Courtney Sweetman-Kirk 25 goals in 2015 how many more in 2016? |
Prediction - I said it when Dowie and Sigsworth joined along with Sweetman-Kirk and Sue Smith in attack that if Doncaster Rovers Belles didn't score goals in FAWSL 1 now then they never would and think they will be clear of the bottom pushing on into mid-table a 5th place finish is my prediction.
Final Thoughts
There you have it haven't committed to an order for the top or bottom three, very hard to call think most agree about who will be at the top and who might be at the bottom, up to the clubs and players to do the business and prove everyone wrong, always a surprise package and that's what makes the game so interesting. Teams will take points off each other and the fixture lay out makes it tough for anyone to get a run going.
What do you want me to say about the fixture schedule now we are on the subject. I honestly thought before the fixtures were announced I'd be seeing less FAWSL football as with the Continental Tyres Cup no longer having a group stage there would be less matches to fit in albeit an extra team in FAWSL 1, less mid-week fixtures more Sunday games, but no as it turns out I'll be able to see more matches as they are spread all over the place the season (meant to be a summer league) stretching from March 23rd to 6th November.
Most clubs have around half their fixtures scheduled on the traditional Sunday afternoon with fans being asked to make some long journeys during the week, the Sunderland v Chelsea fixtures for example both home and away are on a Wednesday night. The season has the potential to peter out for several clubs too as in September, October and November there is just the one league game being played per club and alot of clubs will already be out of the FA Women's Cup before the league season even starts. 6 season's on you would have thought a more condensed season as we see in other popular women's leagues around the world is the way to go. Know it has to be fitted around the National team which takes priority over the domestic game. That being said I will get to see plenty of matches but I'm hardly the target audience.
Followed the FAWSL for 5 season's now has evolved been fun to watch fast paced and skill on show, an enjoyable experience met lots of great people along the way looking forwards the the adventure in 2016 will no doubt catch you at a game somewhere soon.
Followed the FAWSL for 5 season's now has evolved been fun to watch fast paced and skill on show, an enjoyable experience met lots of great people along the way looking forwards the the adventure in 2016 will no doubt catch you at a game somewhere soon.
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