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 Liverpool Ladies beat Doncaster Belles 3-2 earlier this evening in their final Continental Cup group game. The reds fate in the competition will now be decided by results in other groups over the coming days.

 Matt Beard made just the one change in the starting 11, with Kate Longhurst returning in place of Martha Harris. Katrin Omarsdottir also returned to the Liverpool bench, replacing Claudia Walker who is away on international duty with England U19s.

 6 days ago the reds raced to a 7-0 lead away at Durham before conceding a penalty in the final minutes. During the first-half against Doncaster, they picked up where they left off.

 Gemma Davison was in electric form, playing predominately down the middle and behind the front two of Kate Longhurst and Natasha Dowie. The front three playing brilliantly together, creating chances and making off-the-ball runs. Davison had the first chance of the game, Longhurst laying the ball off perfectly on the edge of the area and the strike only just going over the crossbar.

 Kate Longhurst then seen a couple of chances of her own, first shooting wide following a Dowie through ball and then seeing a shot blocked – heading the ball back down to Dowie who shot wide. The attacking trio were well supported by Fara Williams, Amanda Da Costa and Katie Zelem, with some fantastic passing play during the first 45 minutes.

 Natasha Dowie hit a double against Durham last weekend and struck twice again this evening; Katie Zelem with the assist for the first, continuing her fine start to life in the Liverpool first-team with another solid performance. Dowie‘s second was the third of the game, latching on to a loose ball and making no mistake to finish low past the Doncaster keeper.

  In between the two Dowie goals, Amanda Da Costa scored her first goal of 2014. Davison with the run into the 18-yard box after Corina Schroder set her up, her strike was saved but only as far as Da Costa who was on hand to put the ball into the back of the net.

 Liverpool went in at half-time 3-0 up and cruising, playing some of the best football they’ve displayed in 2014 so far.

 Credit to Doncaster Belles who never gave up and fought their way back into the second-half, rewarding their brilliant travelling support with a couple of goals of their own.

 Gemma Bonner and Nina Frausing are forming a good partnership in the middle of the Liverpool defence, Bonner coming under pressure a couple of times but doing well to get the ball out to Frausing to clear.

 Early in the second-half Liverpool saw a couple of chances to extend their lead go wide, Fara Williams with a great ball to find Kate Longhurst on the edge of the area. Longhurst found Dowie but the return pass went out for a goal kick. Minutes later Williams‘ corner narrowly missed the head of Lucy Bronze.

 Both of Doncaster’s goals came from free kicks, the first being swung in low by Sue Smith around the reds wall to be headed past Libby Stout by Beth England. Jessica Sigsworth added a second for Doncaster to make the final 10 minutes a tense one for the reds as the Belles continued to press for an equaliser

 Hannah Dale and Katrin Omarsdottir replaced Katie Zelem and Gemma Davison midway through the second-half, while Becky Easton came on for Kate Longhurst as Liverpool switched to three at the back – with Lucy Bronze and Corina Schroder playing as wing-backs.

 Liverpool comfortably seen out the victory in the final minutes of the game and will return to league action on Wednesday with an important derby against Everton Ladies – 6:30pm kick off.

 XI: Stout, Bronze, Bonner (C), Frausing, Schroder, Williams, Da Costa, Zelem (Dale), Davison (Katrin), Longhurst (Easton), Dowie

 POTM: Gemma Davison (Natasha Dowie & Katie Zelem both coming a close second)

 @LFCladiesfans

 This Saturday Liverpool Ladies play their final Continental Cup group game at home against Doncaster Belles. The reds sit second in their group and there is still a chance they can qualify for the semi-finals of the competition as best runner-up from the three groups.

 Last weekend away at Durham WFC, Liverpool at first found it difficult to convert the many chances being created. Leading goal scorer Natasha Dowie ensured the reds went in at half-time in the lead and doubled her tally after the break during a second-half where Liverpool ran riot.

 Ellie Stewart came on for the second-half, a substitution that seemed to allow Lucy Bronze and Corina Schroder to push higher up the pitch to devastating effects. Bronze was lethal during the final 45 minutes, providing a hat-trick of assists as Liverpool put 6 past the Durham defence.

 Katie Zelem was also a stand-out player throughout the 90 minutes, having only made her competitive début for Liverpool 7 days earlier the young midfielder scored twice. The second goal displaying excellent determination as Zelem had three attempts on goal in quick succession, eventually putting the ball in the back of the net.

 Zelem could be the missing link in the Liverpool midfield; over the last couple of matches the reds struggled to find the final ball to Natasha Dowie up front, but with Zelem linking well behind the striker with both Schroder and Gemma Davison plenty of opportunities were created. Dowie‘s second goal coming after a nice passing move between Zelem and Schroder.

 Doncaster Belles return to Widnes on Saturday after also paying Liverpool a visit during pre-season, the match report for Liverpool’s 1-0 that night can be found here. Ellie Stewart with the deciding goal in that game.

 Since then Doncaster have enjoyed a successful start to life in Women’s Super League 2. The Belles currently sit second in the second tier of women’s football after opening their campaign with 5 wins and a draw.

 During those 6 games they have scored 15 league goals, conceding 4. Sue Smith is their overall leading goal scorer on 6 for the season so far, Leandra Little and Jessica Sigsworth just behind her on 5 and 4 respectively.

 One result that stands out from Doncaster’s Continental Cup games so far, is their 2-1 victory over Manchester City. Last season it was controversially announced that Manchester City were to be awarded a place in the top tier of the WSL, while Doncaster Belles would be forced to play for promotion in the league below.

 Doncaster will be missing both Jemma Purfield and Ashleigh Mills for this cup clash, the duo along with Liverpool’s Claudia Walker are with England U19s ahead of their UEFA tournament next week.

 The Belles enjoy fantastic travelling support from their noisy fans and it will be great to welcome them back to Select Stadium on Saturday! That said, their bells coupled with the Liverpool supporters hooters will not make a pleasant noise so here is your 2 day warning to bring cotton wool – I know I will!

 The game kicks off at 6:30pm this Saturday 12th July. Admission on the gate will be £5 adults and £2.50 concessions, if you buy in advance online from here these prices are reduced to £3 adults and £1 concessions while Liverpool supporters in possession of an Anfield season ticket as always are granted free entry to all home games.

 Finally over the next month a number of Liverpool players are due to be involved in international tournaments with England. First up will be Claudia Walker who has been named as part of the England squad for the UEFA Women’s U19 Championships in Norway. Their first game will be on Tuesday 15th July, make sure you’re following on twitter to find all scores and you can also bookmark this blog which will be updated following each game. Walker will be unavailable for Liverpool  for at least the next three games – missing Doncaster Belles, Everton and Bristol Academy away.

 Thanks to Tim Hickman for allowing the use of the photos he took at Durham last Sunday to be used on the blog, for the full set click here.

 @LFCladiesfans

 Liverpool Ladies returned to winning ways this afternoon with a thumping 7-1 win away at Durham WFC in the Continental Cup.

 Libby Stout returned to the starting 11 after missing last week’s defeat to Arsenal, Nina Frausing made her first start for Liverpool in place of the injured Becky Easton and Martha Harris came in for Kate Longhurst.

 Liverpool started quickly out of the blocks in the first-half, holding the majority of the possession with Fara Williams, Katie Zelem and Gemma Davison each pressing forward looking to create opportunities.

 Natasha Dowie looked eager to score and could have had a hat-trick within the opening 10 minutes. Danielle Hill cut out a Davison cross that Liverpool’s leading scorer looked certain to get on the end of and minutes later Hill again thwarted Dowie – saving well from a low drive. The third chance came after Katie Zelem expertly controlled and knocked the ball into the path of the oncoming Dowie but her strike went the wrong side of the post.

 Midway through the first-half Natasha Dowie finally opened the scoring, finishing well after Durham failed to clear.

 Liverpool continued to look hungry for goals however went in at half-time just 1-0 up, despite Dowie hitting the post with a 20-yard strike and sending a penalty just wide.

 Matt Beard made a half-time substitution with Ellie Stewart coming on for Martha Harris. Stewart slotted comfortably into defence alongside Gemma Bonner and Nina Frausing and the change allowed Lucy Bronze and Corina Schroder to play even higher up the pitch.

 The reds, playing in their new yellow away strip, hit a goal rush in the second-half; firing 6 more past the Durham keeper.

 Skipper Gemma Bonner doubled the lead, scrambling the ball home from close range following a corner. The was the Liverpool captain’s first goal this season, after scoring a couple of important goals at the end of the last campaign.

 The third came after Corina Schroder and Katie Zelem combined well to set up Natasha Dowie, who scored her second of the day and 8th overall for the season.

 Katie Zelem made her competitive debut for the reds last weekend an continued her comeback from a broken collarbone with an impressive performance in the centre of midfield. Zelem was behind the majority of the Liverpool chances in the second-half, creating a good partnership with Gemma Davison and continuously linking with Schroder on the wing.

 Zelem scored twice in quick succession, the ever-brilliant Lucy Bronze setting up both of her goals. The first cross powerfully headed into the back of the net and the second headed from the rebound after first hitting the crossbar.

 5-0 up and cruising, Kate Longhurst came on for Natasha Dowie and almost immediately set up a chance for Amanda Da Costa who shot wide. Hannah Dale also came on, replacing Katie Zelem.

 It was finally Gemma Davison‘s turn to strike a double, Davison had been providing opportunities for her team mates throughout the course of the game but eventually got herself on the score sheet. Davison’s first goal coming after the Durham defence failed to clear and her second after yet another Lucy Bronze cross.

 Libby Stout was solid when called upon, coming out to clear her lines and easily collecting corners. Stout however conceded a penalty in the final minutes of the game and despite diving the right way Durham pulled a goal back with Caroline Dixon adding a late consolation goal from the spot.

 POTM: Katie Zelem, with a mention also to Lucy Bronze with a hat-trick of assists!

 XI: Stout, Bronze, Bonner (C), Frausing, Schroder, Harris (Stewart), Williams, Da Costa, Davison, Zelem (Dale), Dowie (Longhurst)

 Unused subs: Gibbons, Walker, Hodson

 An extremely promising second-half performance from Liverpool today, ahead of their final Continental Cup group game at home to Doncaster Belles on Saturday 12th July.

 Although the chances of progressing to the semi-finals of the competition are slim, there is still a chance so it would be great to get a good crowd in to support the players. Liverpool are doing a special offer on ticket prices for the game if bought in advance.

 Thanks for reading!

 @LFCladiesfans

 One week on from defeat at home to Arsenal, Liverpool Ladies travel to the North East to take on Durham WFC in the Continental Cup.

 Liverpool’s run in the competition so far has seen a 0-0 derby draw against Everton Ladies, a 6-0 thrashing of Sunderland and a 2-1 loss away from home at Manchester City. With Durham and Doncaster Belles next Saturday being the reds last two group games before the semi-finals they must take maximum points to maintain hope of reaching the semi-finals of this competition for the second year running.

 On Sunday against Arsenal, Liverpool were unlucky in front of goal; both Natasha Dowie and Amanda DaCosta heading wide in the first half. They were even more unlucky to concede the way they did, the ball knocked in the back of the net by Casey Stoney following a tussle in the 6-yard box.

 Katie Zelem made her long-awaited competitive début for Liverpool, the young midfielder missed the first part of the season with a broken collarbone and slotted comfortably into the midfield alongside Fara Williams and Amanda DaCosta.

 While one player returns from injury, another sat the game out – goalkeeper Libby Stout failing a late fitness test. In Stout’s absence Danielle Gibbons once again made the step up to deputise, impressing with a number of saves from Danielle Carter.

 Kate Longhurst and Becky Easton also picked up injuries during the game, while Nina Frausing made her Liverpol début following her summer move. Frausing immediately immersed herself into the game, playing in midfield and creating chances for fellow substitute Claudia Walker and Natasha Dowie.

 Lucy Bronze also created chances throughout the 90 minutes, playing the majority of the game at right-back and pushing forward up the wing. Bronze almost found herself on the score sheet, testing Emma Byrne from 25 yards with a ferocious strike that the Arsenal keeper only just tipped over the crossbar.

 Liverpool’s opposition on Sunday currently sit bottom of the Women’s Super League second division, following a 2-1 defeat at the weekend to Oxford United. On-loan reds left-back Megan Alexander featured for Oxford during the game, helping them to the first win of their campaign.

 Like Liverpool, Durham have seen a couple of players miss games through injury. Louise Fellows made her WSL début on Sunday on her return from injury, while Ellie Christon also made her first appearance in 6 weeks after picking up an injury against Everton in the same competition.

 Durham’s top scorer this season is midfielder Caroline Dixon who has 3 goals in 9 games. New signing Emily Scott from Middlesborough also scored on her début against Oxford.

 When Liverpool’s development squad beat Durham 6-2 in November 2013, 5 of the players who featured during Durham’s 2-1 defeat to Oxford also played – Jessica Round, Beth Hepple, Victoria Linsley, Jennifer Jennings and Rebecca Hanratty. Supporters of Liverpool Ladies will now also recognise the reds goal scorers that day; Shannon Beckwith opened the scoring and Beth Donoghue doubled Liverpool’s lead before Ellie Stewart impressively added a third with a long-range free-kick.

 3-0 down, Durham pulled a goal back through débutante Stacy Crooks but Claudia Walker re-extended the reds lead just before half-time. The second-half also seen a whole host of chances, mostly created through Megan Alexander who also got herself on the score sheet. Ashley Hodson netted Liverpool’s 6th and Crooks scored her second of the game just before the final whistle. Read the full match report here: Liverpool Ladies dev. squad 6 – 2 Durham WFC.

 The game will not be live on television however you should be able to listen to commentary online. Last week Durham announced via their website that all remaining home games would be broadcast live at www.dhradio.org.uk.

 If you are travelling to support the reds at the game kick off is at 2pm, Sunday 6th July, Durham play all home games at New Ferens Park and you can purchase tickets at the turnstiles for £4 adults – children’s tickets are free.

 In other news this week, on-loan Liverpool midfielder Louise Fors has announced her decision to take a break from football. Fors was sensational for Liverpool last year and a massive part of our league winning campaign. Read the club’s official announcement here and Fors’ interview on her decision here.

 In better news, Liverpool trio Martha Harris, Ellie Stewart and Katie Zelem have each received England call-ups for the upcoming U20 World Cup in Canada. England are in Group C and will face South Korea on 6th August, Mexico on 9th August and Nigera on 13th August.

 Claudia Walker also received an international call-up and will feature for England in the UEFA Women’s U19 Championships in Norway. There England will face Sweden on 15th July, Republic of Ireland on 18th July and Spain on 21st July.

 @LFCladiesfans

 Liverpool Ladies fell to their first defeat of the Women’s Super League this afternoon to an Arsenal Ladies side determined to lift themselves from the bottom of the league. 

Katie Zelem returned from injury

POTM: Lucy Bronze

Liverpool celebrate at their last home game vs Birmingham

 36 days after being held to a 1-1 draw by Birmingham City, Liverpool Ladies will resume their title defence with a home tie against Arsenal Ladies.

 Since then a number of players have featured for England, with Fara Williams equalling the all-time caps record and looking likely to break it during the August friendly with Sweden. Lucy Bronze and Natasha Dowie also featured for the senior national side as they beat both Belarus and Ukraine, while Martha Harris and Ellie Stewart were with the U23s as they beat Sweden and lost to Norway.

 Today Liverpool Ladies Under 17s won The FA Youth Cup following a 1-0 victory over Merseyside rivals Everton Ladies.

 Rachel Darbyshire started in goal for the reds with the solid centre-back pairing of captain Olivia Fuller and Rachel Robinson in front of her. Maz Pacheco and Beth Evans were at left-back and right-back, with Jessica Davenport up front, Mollie Green just behind her and the midfield four of Summer Smith, Tash Rothery, Blue Pendlebury and Kess Elmore.

 The first half was an even battle between the two strong youth sides, it was Everton who had the first chance of the game with their forward firing well over from the edge of the area.

 Mollie Green returned to U17 action following a successful recent spell with the development squad, combining well with Jess Davenport in and around the 18-yard box to set up Tash Rothery for Liverpool’s first chance of the game – the shot just off target.

 Seconds later Davenport went on another mazy run into the box, her strike deflected out for a corner which was cleared. Liverpool continued to show brief spells of dominance in the first-half; a great through ball from Green was latched onto by Rothery but the blues defender managed to get back to clear.

 From the clearance Everton themselves forged forward, Rachel Robinson blocking the shot but the blues continued to press forward – Summer Smith doing well to get back to cover and put the Everton attacker off her strike.

 Before half-time Liverpool were presented with a number of opportunities, Rothery and Davenport both seeing strikes go wide before Maz Pacheco’s free kick was headed away before it could reach Mollie Green. Green had the last chance of the first-half, somehow her goal bound strike was kept out by the Everton keeper.

 Out for the second-half the reds picked up were they left off, Lizzie Earle – who replaced Beth Evans – and Pacheco pressing high up the pitch driving the team forward. Straight away winning a corner which was headed wide by Olivia Fuller, Blue Pendlebury also went close to opening the scoring but seen her effort only just go the wrong side of the post.

 Everton did have a couple of chances early on, No1 Rachel Darbyshire punching away the corner and comfortably coming out to collect the return ball. The keeper was calm and composed when called upon throughout the 90 minutes – seconds before the final whistle expertly getting a hand to a long distance strike.

 Kess Elmore had an excellent game in midfield, the quality of the crosses she was sending into the box was fantastic and she was a constant source of creativity for Liverpool.

 Just minutes after teeing Pacheco up for a strike that was well saved, Elmore broke through the so far resilient blues defence and brilliantly finished past the keeper. The strike would prove to be the cup winning goal, Everton stepped up their game after going behind but Liverpool stayed strong as a team unit proving tough to break down.

 Rachel Robinson was another stand out performer in the heart of defence, working well alongside Fuller to halt and frustrate the blues in their search for an equaliser.

 Hayley Taylor also came on as a second-half substitute to add fresh legs to the side, helping the team to see out the win with ease.

 POTM: When doing the vote each of Rachel Robinson, Maz Pacheco, Rachel Darbyshire and Kess Elmore were mentioned, with Elmore picking up the majority – the game-winning goal capping an impressive performance for the England youth international.

 XI: Darbyshire, Evans (Earle), Fuller (C), Robinson, Pacheco, Smith (Taylor), Pendlebury, Rothery, Elmore, Green, Davenport

 Unused subs: Carberry, F. Curteis, E. Curteis, Johnson, Threlkeld

 Overall Liverpool thoroughly deserved to lift the cup, beating Everton in style – particularly during the second-half – and displaying attractive attacking football with some great passing movement. Congratulations to the whole team and to coach Matty Campbell!

 The future for Liverpool Ladies is very, very bright!

 Thanks for reading,

 Heather @LFCladiesfans 

 After 1,122 miles, 9 games, 16 goals and a lot of chanting, welcome to @LFCladiesfans Mid Season Review! 

 Including: Fixtures & Results, Attendances & Goals, WSL, The FA Cup, Continental Cup, ‘… of the Season so far’ Awards and Development Squad Season Review.

Liverpool fixtures & results


13/04/14 (a) Sunderland Ladies     W 2 – 0     The FA Cup   attendance 308
17/04/14 (h) Manchester City     W 1 – 0     WSL   attendance 1572
20/04/14 (a) Chelsea Ladies     D 0 – 0     WSL   attendance 503
26/04/14 (h) Everton Ladies     L 2 – 0     The FA Cup   attendance 824
30/04/14 (h) Everton Ladies     D 0 – 0     Continental Cup   attendance 770
03/05/14 (h) Sunderland Ladies     W 6 – 0     Continental Cup   attendance 403
14/05/14 (a) Manchester City     L 2 – 1     Continental Cup   attendance 746
18/05/14 (a) Notts County Ladies     D 0 – 0     WSL   attendance 1071
24/05/14 (h) Birmingham City     D 1 – 1     WSL   attendance 477

click the team name above to read the match report from each game

Liverpool Ladies at Manchester City away credit: @justaballgame

W 3 /  D 4  / L 2

Total attendances: 6,674
Average attendance: 742
Average home attendance: 809 (1,024 WSL games) 

The average home attendance of 809 is a massive increase on the average attendance at the midway point last season, which stood at 478 for games played in Widnes. It is however a slight drop on the average attendance at the end of the season, which was 861. (This figure does rise to 965 if you include the semi-final at Anfield.)

The average home attendance for WSL games at Select Stadium is 1,024, with teams like Arsenal Ladies, Chelsea Ladies and a league derby yet to come this figure should hopefully rise and it is a great number to build on going into the next round of games.


Liverpool goal scorers


Natasha Dowie   6   vs Sunderland x 4, Manchester City x 2
Martha Harris   1   vs Sunderland
Gemma Davison   1   vs Sunderland
Corina Schroder   1   vs Sunderland
Katrin Omarsdottir   1   vs Sunderland
Fara Williams   1   vs Birmingham City  

 Liverpool Ladies have scored 11 goals so far this season, conceding just 5. Libby Stout has kept 4 clean sheets from 6 appearances, Danielle Gibbons has 2 clean sheets in 3 starts and 1 from a substitute appearance at Chelsea.

 Natasha Dowie is of course Liverpool’s top scorer, Dowie now has 25 goals in 30 appearances overall for the reds.

Natasha Dowie scored a hat-trick against Sunderland credit: @Girlsontheball

FA Women’s Super League

W 1 /  D 3 /  L 0

 Liverpool Ladies began their title defence with a 1-0 home victory over league newcomers Manchester City on Thursday 17th April. Attacking from the opening whistle, Kate Longhurst opened the scoring after closing down Andie Worrall in the first-half however the referee controversially ruled the goal out for handball. 

 Following this Liverpool lost their composure slightly, allowing Manchester City into the game a bit more while still maintaining control with the majority of the possession. New number 1 Libby Stout produced a fantastic performance between the posts, saving well from Toni Duggan twice in the second half.

 Well into the second half last season’s WSL Golden Boot winner Natasha Dowie opened her league account for 2014 with a well-taken goal, Lucy Bronze picking her out with a great ball forward from centre-back. 

 Four days later on Sunday 20th April came Liverpool’s first away league game of the campaign, against an impressive Chelsea Ladies side that boasts an intimidating front three of Ji So-Yun, Yuki Ogimi and Eni Oluko.  

pre-game huddle at Chelsea away credit: @Girlsontheball

 Ashley Hodson did well for Liverpool after replacing Kate Longhurst midway through the first half due to injury, the development squad striker linking well with Natasha Dowie. 

 A second forced substitution seen Danielle Gibbons replace Libby Stout in goal, Gibbons with a couple of important saves just before a late scare when Aluko sent her strike wide of the post after going through on goal; the game finishing 0-0.

 Liverpool then had to wait almost a month for their next league game, Notts County away on Sunday 18th May coming after 4 cup games and an international break. 

 Despite scoring 7 in their last two games Liverpool couldn’t break Notts County down, the game saw few attempts on goal from either side, also finishing 0-0, yet it was Notts with the majority of attacking play – the reds defence coming under immense pressure particularly during a tense 10 minutes in the second half where Liverpool’s attempts to control the game just seemed to further invite the home side to press high up the pitch and try to catch the visitors off guard.

 Gemma Bonner put in a good shift at centre-back, chasing every ball and dealing well with the threat of Jess Clarke and Desiree Scott. 

 The final game before the mid season break seen Liverpool entertain Birmingham City Ladies at home on Saturday 24th May, being held by the in-form City 1-1.

 A dubious penalty decision against Libby Stout seen her concede her first league goal this season, with Karen Carney sending the reds stopper the wrong way.

 Liverpool drew level through a penalty themselves in the second half, Fara Williams coolly finishing from the spot after Hannah Dale was fouled in the box.

 The point earned means everything is still there to play for in the second half of the season, Liverpool are just 2 points off league leaders Birmingham City with 10 games to play.

Liverpool’s back line, Easton, Bonner, Bronze, Schroder credit: @SupportHerApp

The FA Cup

W 1 / D 0 / L 1

 Having reached the semi-final of this competition last season, Liverpool Ladies were hoping to go one step further in 2014. 

 Starting brightly with a 2-0 victory away at Sunderland Ladies on Sunday 13th April despite losing Amanda Da Costa to injury in the warm-up and being forced into an early tactical change.

 Kate Longhurst worked hard on the wing brilliantly setting up Martha Harris for the opener; Longhurst was also involved in the build up for the second after Sunderland failed to clear her strike, Natasha Dowie finishing from just yards to double the reds lead.

 This win set up a quarter-final with Merseyside rivals Everton Ladies, on Saturday 26th April the first derby of the season enticed a crowd of 824 spectators who watched as Liverpool crashed out the cup following a great first-half performance from the blues.

 Nikita Parris struck the first goal after racing past Gemma Bonner into the box, Alex Greenwood doubling Everton’s lead just before half-time following a corner.

 Everton Ladies have since beaten Notts County in their semi-final, progressing to the final where they will face Arsenal Ladies on Sunday 1st June. Liverpool U17s also play the same day, they have their cup final against Everton U17s at 1pm which will be followed by The FA Cup final kicking off at 4:30pm. 

Claudia Walker & Natasha Dowie credit: @SupportHerApp

Continental Cup

W 1 / D 1 / L 1

 Just four days after defeat to Everton in The FA Cup, Liverpool hosted their rivals yet again – this time in the Continental Cup on Wednesday 30th April. 

 Liverpool began this game much better, quickly seeking to win and retain possession with Everton seeming content to sit back and defend, attempting to catch the reds on the counter attack and utilise the pace of Nikita Parris.

 Gemma Bonner and Lucy Bronze effectively dealt with Parris this time around, frustrating the young striker and limiting both her options and attempts on goal.

 Everton also defended well, Natasha Dowie‘s cross to Claudia Walker well cut out by Gabby George. Walker also seen a late strike tipped over the bar by the Everton keeper, while Corina Schroder hit the crossbar in the first-half. The game finished 0 – 0.

 On Saturday 3rd May, after 3 games with no goals for Liverpool, the reds welcomed title winning keeper Rachael Laws and Sunderland Ladies to Select Stadium. Laws did not start as Liverpool ran rampant, putting 6 past the black cats.

 The ever-impressive Gemma Davison opened the scoring with her first goal since her winter move from Arsenal Ladies, an excellent goal from outside the 18-yard box. Davison then turned provider for the following goal, putting a cross across the face of goal for Corina Schroder to score the second.

 Natasha Dowie then bagged herself a hat-trick; the first headed home from a Fara Williams corner, the second a fantastic move after turning with the ball and finishing from just inside the box and the third another brilliant finish – this time with her left foot. 

 Katrin Omarsdottir rounded off the scoring after scrambling the ball home from close range.

Danielle Gibbons, Corina Schroder, Gemma Bonner & Lucy Bronze defend a corner vs Everton credit: @Girlsontheball

 Following a short international break for the World Cup Qualifiers, the Continental Cup action resumed as Liverpool travelled to Manchester City on Wednesday 14th May, picking up their second defeat of the year with a 2-1 loss.

 City – much like Everton in The FA Cup – piled pressure on Liverpool early on, Toni Duggan‘s header going out wide for a cross to be swung in and cleared only as far as Abbie McManus. McManus finishing well from distance past Libby Stout, on her first start since return from injury.

 Natasha Dowie equalised for the reds, heading Gemma Davison‘s cross into the back of the net. Dowie scoring her 25th goal in a Liverpool shirt on her 28th appearance. 

 Minutes later Katrin Omarsdottir almost put Liverpool in front – her strike was blocked by Steph Houghton and the follow-up from Claudia Walker also hit the England captain. 

 Manchester City retook the lead through Izzy Christianson shortly after half-time, while a positive for Liverpool in the second half was the return of Martha Harris who has missed most of the season so far through injury.

 Liverpool have two Continental Cup group games remaining, away at Durham on Sunday 6th July and at home to Doncaster Belles on Saturday 12th July. There are 3 groups of 6 in the group stages, the winner of each will progress to the semi-finals joined by the best runner-up.

Liverpool prepare to defend an Everton free kick credit: @Girlsontheball

‘… of the Season so far’ Awards!


Player of the Season so far

At the midway point of the season last year, fans of Liverpool Ladies nominated Louise Fors as their Player of the Season so far, with the Swedish winger producing a number of eye-catching displays as the reds went on a goal scoring rampage to the top of the league. 

This season, other than when facing Sunderland Ladies, goals have been few and far between and the Liverpool defence has come under pressure. The stand out player amongst the brilliant back four has been Becky Easton and Becky has been voted as POTSSF by fans on twitter and on facebook.

Walking in an Easton wonderland credit: @SupportHerApp

 Becky Easton has started all but one game this season for Liverpool Ladies, the defensive shuffle at the back meaning Lucy Bronze moved into centre-back has given her an opportunity to make the right-back spot her own and she has done so with ease. 

 Provides cover on the right-wing when Davison cuts in, Easton is tough in the tackle and solid at the back under pressure. Has also played at centre-back this year; at Notts County away when Liverpool needed to alter their game plan, Easton moved to partner captain Gemma Bonner with Lucy Bronze moving out wide. For the following game at home to Birmingham City, Becky also started at centre-back proving a versatile defender before finishing the game back at right-back.

 Vastly experienced in the world of women’s football, she is also a player that the youngsters now coming into the squad can look up to and aspire to having a career as long and decorated as hers – and still be performing to the highest standards. 

 Becky stormed ahead in the votes, particularly following the two aforementioned games against Notts County and Birmingham City. One voter summed it up perfectly, describing her as ‘the female Jamie Carragher’, ‘hard, passionate and scouse‘. 

 Altogether now, “There’s only one Becky Easton!”

Runners up:

2) Gemma Davison

Oh it’s Gemma, Gemma Davison on the wing credit: @Girlsontheball

The reds number 10 has quickly settled on Merseyside, dazzling the crowds with her blinding pace and brilliant runs forward, swinging cross after cross into the 18-yard box. With losing other key players both before and during the season, Davison’s role in the team has grown in importance and she is a key first-team player, playing every minute of every game so far. 

Davison scored her first Liverpool goal with a great effort against Sunderland to break the reds string of 3 games with no goal, also providing the assist for Corina Schroder in the same game. 

In 2014 Gemma also received a long overdue and welcome call-up to the England squad; having missed out on 2 squads since, the winger is making it hard for Mark Sampson to keep ignoring her and has received a call-up to an England training camp which is a preliminary squad for the next World Cup qualifiers. 

3) Libby Stout/ Gemma Bonner

 As already mentioned the Liverpool defence has been key so far this season, it’s no surprise then that tied in 3rd place is goalkeeper Libby Stout and captain Gemma Bonner.

 Libby Stout was one of four winter signings, making the move from the German league. On her competitive home début against Manchester City pulled out a string of great saves. Comfortable controlling the defence in front of her, strong in one-on-one situations and bravely coming out to collect when under pressure. 

Super, Super Stout! credit: @SupportHerApp

 Gemma Bonner is the perfect captain for Liverpool Ladies Football Club, last season Bonner pulled the team through a number of tough matches following the mid season break and this year has been much the same. A vocal and commanding presence at the back, chases and challenges for every ball.

When I shout Gemma, you shout… credit: @SupportHerApp

4) Lucy Bronze & 5) Katrin Omarsdottir


Young Player of the Season so far

Given the unprecedented first-team injury crisis, many of Liverpool’s development squad have made the step up to plug the gaps. Ashley Hodson and Hannah Dale both coming off the bench at Sunderland away, Hodson a week later a first-half substitution away at Chelsea to replace the injured Kate Longhurst and then starting the following game at home against Everton. Dale has also started for the first team, replacing Katrin Omarsdottir in the final game before the break and putting in a performance as if she’d been there all season.

Ellie Stewart has impressed on her couple of first-team appearances, the young centre back even scoring the winner during the pre-season friendly against Doncaster Belles, while Megan Alexander has also been given a chance at senior level after a good season with the development squad; all 4 not looking out of place.

Amongst the host of youth players, Claudia Walker has stood out. Called up following injury to both Longhurst and Martha Harris after a gruelling first week back; Walker made her début in the derby defeat to Everton, immediately impressing and immersing herself into the game as Liverpool attempted to mount a comeback. Walker’s performance earned her a spot in the starting 11 for the following 3 games, including the 6-0 victory over Sunderland Ladies where the young striker was an important part of the Liverpool attacking movement and unlucky not to get on the score sheet. Even more impressive is that between the two derbies, Walker played and scored for the development squad in their Cup semi-final away at Aston Villa; setting up a final against Arsenal Ladies in Birmingham on Saturday 31st May. 

All we need is… Claudia Walker!

Highlight & Team performance of the Season so far

After 3 games with no Liverpool goals, talk began of a drought and where the next goal would come from. Step forward Gemma Davison and Natasha Dowie and a cup tie at home against Sunderland Ladies, Davison opening the scoring and providing the assist for Corina Schoder minutes later and Dowie with a brilliant hat-trick. Katrin Omarsdottir bundled home the final goal of the game after a Lucy Bronze cross, meaning Liverpool had put 6 past the unfortunate Sunderland side. 

Liverpool celebrate Davison’s opener vs Sunderland credit: @Girlsontheball

Goal of the Season so far

Last season Natasha Dowie scored 19 goals in 21 appearances for Liverpool, this season so far the England striker has 6 in 9 appearances (and 25 in 30 appearances overall in a red shirt). For goal of the season so far it could have been a number of Dowie’s goal, however her second against Sunderland Ladies stands out. An excellent ball forward from Fara Williams was expertly controlled by Dowie, on her first touch controlling the ball and turning the Sunderland defender to fire from just inside the 18-yard box.

@ 56 seconds

Disappointment of the Season so far

One day we’ll be able to look back on The Great Injury Crisis of 2014 and laugh, maybe. To lose two key players in Nicole Rolser and Lucy Staniforth before the season began was a blow, to then lose Katie Zelem for the entire first half of the season and each of Amanda Da Costa, Libby Stout, Martha Harris and Kate Longhurst for a number of games has been more than unlucky. For a couple of games Liverpool were missing no less than 6 first team players. Katrin Omarsdottir also missed the final game before the break against Birmingham City.

Casualties of The Great Injury Crisis of 2014

Development Squad

As mentioned already, the injuries plaguing the first-team has given opportunities to a number of players from the clubs development squad so to take positives from the unfortunate situation it is a testament to the coaching staff that these players have made the step up confidently. Aside from the 5 development squad players making their senior debuts there are many more waiting in the wings, Shannon Beckwith, Olivia Wild and Beth Donoghue to name just a few. 

Liverpool Ladies development squad & coaches

 Since opening their season with a 3-1 win at home against Doncaster Belles, Liverpool went on to win 4 of their opening 5 games – scoring 12 and conceding 4 in those 4 wins. Including a 1-0 win away at league leaders Manchester City, Ashley Hodson with the only goal in that game.

 The next 8 games seen 3 draws, against Doncaster Belles, Everton and Birmingham, a loss away to Aston Villa and 4 victories – a 5-0 thrashing of Doncaster Belles coming just before a 3-0 win over Notts County. Following this game their season was disrupted by the first team injury crisis, losing 5 players at different times along with Katie Zelem, Ellie Stewart and Danielle Gibbons who had all already been training with the seniors.

 Despite 2 losses in a row, a 4-2 defeat to Sunderland and beaten 3-1 away by Birmingham City, the development squad was never short of goals and have in fact scored at least one goal in each game since the goalless draw at Everton in February. In that time they have scored 28 goals in 12 games.

 Following the 2 losses they travelled to face Aston Villa away in their cup semi-final, falling a goal behind Claudia Walker brought the scores level before Beth Donoghue and then Hannah Dale scored to set up a final on Saturday 31st May against Arsenal Ladies.

 On the run-in to their cup final (where they were narrowly beaten 1-0 with a late goal from Arsenal), Liverpool had been finishing off their league campaign in style with a run of 4 games and 4 wins including a derby double over Everton.

 In their final game of the season on Sunday 8th June, the team twice came from behind to beat Durham 4-2 with goals from Ashley Hodson, Sophia Riccio and a brace from Beth Donoghue to finish 3rd overall in the league.

 Overall from 23 games, the development squad have scored 48 goals – an average of 2.08 a game – from 12 different goal scorers. Beth Donoghue is their leading goalscorer with 10 goals in 23 appearances.

Goal scorers:

Beth Donoghue   10   vs Aston Villa, Doncaster Belles, Durham WFC x 3, Everton Ladies x 3 & Sunderland Ladies x 2
Claudia Walker   7   vs Birmingham City, Durham WFC, Doncaster Belles x 2, Aston Villa x 2 & Notts County
Ashley Hodson   7   vs Sunderland Ladies, Durham WFC x 2, Doncaster Belles, Aston Villa, Manchester City x 2
Katie Zelem   4   vs Notts County, Manchester City, Sunderland Ladies x 2
Hannah Dale   4   vs Doncaster Belles, Durham WFC, Aston Villa x2
Sophia Riccio   4   vs Durham WFC, Notts County, Aston Villa & Sunderland Ladies
Mollie Green   3   vs Everton Ladies, Manchester City & Aston Villa
Shannon Beckwith   3   vs Durham WFC, Birmingham City, Doncaster Belles
Olivia Wild   2   vs Durham WFC, Doncaster Belles
Eve Kennerley   2   vs Doncaster Belles, Notts County
Megan Alexander   1   vs Durham WFC
Ellie Stewart   1   vs Durham WFC

 Development Player of the Season

 Picking this was not an easy decision, reading back over match reports from these games a number of names jump out – Ashley Hodson, Claudia Walker, Beth Donoghue, Olivia Wild and Megan Alexander.

 Having said that, a mini vote amongst supporters has narrowed this short list down to just 2 and therefore Beth Donoghue and Megan Alexander are the joint winners for Development Player of the Season.

Beth Donoghue

 As mentioned Beth Donoghue is the top scorer for the team, with 10 goals in 23 appearances – including 3 against Everton Ladies. Lightning quick on her feet and with an eye for a brilliant pass, picking out the runs of her team mates with ease. Donoghue has also made the most appearances for the squad this season.

 From the first time I watched the development squad play, Megan Alexander has been a stand out performer. A versatile player who can play either left wing or left back, Alexander is ever-reliable in defence and over the season has developed a great attacking sense bombing up and down the wing and sending dozens of crosses into the box. 

Megan Alexander

This season I have caught 6 development squad games, seeing them win 3, draw 2 and lose 1. Watching the team is a great way of seeing the future talent at the club, a lot of faith has been put into the players who have aided the first team this year and that faith has been repaid. Hopefully these players and more will be given chances in the second half of the season as well.

The development squad season plays from October to May. Match reports for a number of development squad games can be found below:

10/11/13 – Liverpool Ladies 6 – 2 Durham WFC         potm Megan Alexander
24/11/13 – Liverpool Ladies 1 – 1 Birmingham City         potm Danielle Gibbons
02/02/14 – Liverpool Ladies 0 – 0 Doncaster Belles         potm Beth Donoghue
09/05/14 – Liverpool Ladies 1 – 3 Manchester City         potm Mollie Green
22/05/14 – Everton Ladies 1 v 2 Liverpool Ladies         potm Beth Donoghue/ Megan Alexander
25/05/14 – Liverpool Ladies 4 v 1 Aston Villa         potm Claudia Walker



Liverpool Centre of Excellence 

 To finish on a cup-winning note, on Sunday 1st June Liverpool Ladies U17s beat Everton Ladies 1-0 in The FA Youth Cup final at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes. Maz Gillam, Jess Davenport and Tash Rothery all going close to opening the scoring before Kess Elmore scored the only goal of the game. At the other end of the pitch Rachel Darbyshire was ever-reliable in goal with the solid centre-back pairing of Rachel Robinson and captain Olivia Fuller in front of her, Fuller eventually lifting the cup.

 Match report here: Liverpool U17s 1 – 0 Everton

Thank you to @SupportHerApp, @Girlsontheball and @justaballgame for allowing me to use their pictures in this review, make sure to follow each on twitter!

SupportHer Apparel have a great range of merchandise available for all supporters of women’s football, check out their website here: SupportHer

Liverpool Ladies with their SupportHer App scarves!

Finally, thanks as always for reading my blogs on Liverpool Ladies! I have been lucky enough to catch every game so far this season, in the second half of the season the only game I should miss is Bristol Academy away so stick with me (and of course the official website & twitter) for news and updates on the club – 9 games down, 13 to go!

WSL table going into the break

Heather, @LFCladiesfans

 Liverpool Ladies were unlucky not to come away with all 3 points in their final game before the mid season break, held at home to a 1-1 draw by Birmingham City.

 The only change to the Liverpool starting 11 seen Hannah Dale start in place of the injured Katrin Omarsdottir, while Kate Longhurst started as a substitute to make the team sheet for the first time since picking up an injury at Chelsea away

 Lucy Bronze also began the game at right back, the defender moving back to the position she excelled in last season with Becky Easton alongside Gemma Bonner at centre back.

 Liverpool started the game much more brightly than last Sunday, Gemma Davison and Lucy Bronze immediately linking well on the right wing; Davison cutting in and shooting from the edge of the 18-yard box early on, her shot was punched wide by Becky Spencer.

 It was in fact Liverpool with the majority of the chances in the first half, mainly a threat down the right with Lucy Bronze sending a number of crosses into the box; almost finding Natasha Dowie with one and then finding herself on the left but there was no one to get on the end of her cross.

 A controversial decision by the referee on the 25th minute to award Birmingham a penalty, the referee judging Libby Stout had fouled Jade Moore right on the edge of the area – no card was given, Karen Carney stepped up to send the Liverpool no.1 the wrong way and open the scoring against the run of play.

 This decision did not put Stout off coming out off her line, throughout the 90 minutes the goalkeeper displayed just why she has become a firm favourite during her time at Liverpool so far with a number of interceptions. At corners and free kicks, Stout commands her box well and never takes her eye off the ball to come out and collect with ease.

 Aside from the penalty decision, the referee made a number of poor calls; Hannah Dale being fouled a number of times, including right in front of the referee but nothing was given. The young development squad midfielder more than impressed on her first 1st team start, both assisting in attack and helping out in defence.

 Liverpool displayed good attacking movement throughout the game. Searching for an equaliser Corina Schroder found Gemma Davison with a great cross, her shot was blocked with the rebound coming out to Hannah Dale. Surrounded by blue shirts, Dale did brilliantly to get the ball back to Amanda DaCosta who squared the ball to Martha Harris – her strike going wide.

 The again minutes later Gemma Davison was fouled on the half way line, a great delivery into the box from Fara Williams seen Corina Schroder find Amanda DaCosta on the edge of the box yet her shot was also blocked.

 As with the first half, the second 45 minutes mainly saw Liverpool attacking as Birmingham seemed content to press and wait for a misplaced pass to mount an attack; the blues almost taking advantage of this when Karen Carney tried a decent effort from the corner of the box, the ball narrowly sailing over the crossbar.

 Hannah Dale continued to impress; Natasha Dowie forced out the box by the Birmingham defence passed back to Dale, who recovered well from a slip, to shoot just wide of the post.

 It was Dale who won the penalty for Liverpool, making a run forward she was tripped in the box for the referee to award the reds a penalty. Fara Williams stepped up, Spencer diving the right way but Williams finished well with a great penalty for her first goal this year and to make it 1-1.

 Gemma Bonner had another brilliant game at the back, the captain at one point in the second half beating two blues players on a great run into the other half, sending the ball forward for Natasha Dowie to chase as Liverpool searched for a winner.

 The game finished 1-1, meaning Liverpool have won 1 and drawn 3 of their opening WSL games. With 10 games left to play following the break, anything could happen – we are just 2 points behind leaders Birmingham City and will no doubt be bringing in some reinforcements during the transfer window.

 XI: Stout, Bronze, Easton, Bonner (C), Schroder, Williams, Dale (Hodson), DaCosta, Harris (Longhurst), Davison, Dowie

 POTM: Lucy Bronze

 Thanks for reading, mid season review will be up tomorrow evening (Monday 26th May) at 6pm. If you haven’t yet voted for Player of the Season so far now is the time to get your vote in! One player has taken the lead, but there is still a tie for 3rd place!

 @LFCladiesfans

 Six weeks after kicking off the 2014 campaign away at Sunderland Ladies, Liverpool Ladies host Birmingham City in the final game before the mid season break.

 It has been a tough opening for Liverpool, losing 3 players before a ball had been kicked and then missing each of Amanda DaCosta, Libby Stout, Martha Harris and Kate Longhurst for one or more games has tested the reds.

 Having said that the players injury-free have more than stood up to the task, Liverpool’s back line in particular coming under heavy pressure at Notts County and Chelsea away – Lucy Bronze and Gemma Bonner‘s centre back partnership grows every game, while Corina Schroder and Becky Easton have been solid at left and right back respectively.

 Gemma Davison has been the catalyst to the majority of Liverpool’s attacking movement, her pace blinding defences. At the last home game at Select Stadium, supporters were treated to a master class in attack from Davison as she opened her Liverpool goals account and provided an assist minutes later.

 Natasha Dowie remains the reds primary goal threat, with 6 goals to her name already this season and 25 in 29 appearances overall in a Liverpool shirt.

 The game against Birmingham will be only the fourth league game, with 5 of the 9 opening games being cup ties. Liverpool remain unbeaten in the league and are also the only WSL side yet to concede a league goal.

 Despite being tipped by many to be candidates for relegation, Birmingham have proved their doubters wrong so far this season and come into this game sitting top of the Women’s Super League. On their last two outings they have beaten both Chelsea Ladies and Arsenal Ladies, scoring 4 goals and conceding 1.

 Kirsty Linnett is the blues top scorer, with 3 goals in 7 games. Remi Allen and Jo Potter, both recently receiving England call-ups, have 2 in 7 each while former reds striker Hannah Keryakoplis has scored one goal so far this year.

 Alongside their 2 wins and a draw so far in the league, Birmingham also progressed to the Champions League semi-finals. The first leg in Birmingham saw a brilliant performance from the blues as they held on to a 0-0 draw against players like Marta and Christen Press, their luck ran out in the second leg a week later; 3 late goals defeating the blues and destroying their hopes of reaching the final.

 Liverpool’s average home attendance so far this season is 892. Down on last years high of 965 however if they get a gate greater than 431 tomorrow night, this average will rise to 1,000+ (WSL games).

 Kick off is 6:30pm, Select Stadium, Widnes. £5 entry for adults on the gate, £2.50 concessions.

 Two things to finish off; first I am putting the finishing touches to my 2014 mid season review, the voting for Player of the Season so far has been a battle between both Becky Easton and Gemma Davison – one player has just pulled ahead of the other so if you haven’t voted yet either tweet me or message/ comment on facebook! Libby Stout and Gemma Bonner are also fighting it out for 3rd place.

 Finally last night I went to watch the development squad in their derby as, for a second time in one week, they defeated Everton Ladies 2-1. This was the 5th development game I’ve gotten to over the course of their season, many players there at the beginning of their season are now with the first team so getting to these games is a brilliant way of seeing the future talent at the club.

 As well as the players who have already made the step up, there are many more deserving of an opportunity. Beth Donoghue has been in fantastic form over the last few weeks, netting 3 of the 4 goals scored against Everton this week, while Olivia Wild and Shannon Beckwith also continue to impress at right back and centre back.

 The development squad have one final home game left this year, on Sunday 25th May at 2pm they will take on Aston Villa at Select Stadium so if you don’t have any plans get down and support the girls! All games are free entry.

 Thanks for reading, mid season review will be up on Monday 26th May! Including: Fixtures & Results, Attendances & Goals, WSL, The FA Cup, Continental Cup, ‘… of the Season so far’ Awards and Development Squad.

 @LFCladiesfans