Our first away trip of the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign sees us travel to Everton on Sunday afternoon (2.30pm UK).
With our first-ever meeting at Goodison Park on the horizon, we spoke to Beth Lindop, Journalist for ESPN, to give us the lowdown on the Toffees…
How would you describe Everton’s terrific start to the season?
Beth: “It’s been a really positive summer for Everton. The club have recruited really well and they carried that positive momentum into the Merseyside derby last weekend. It was statement win at Anfield, and they really grew into the game. Brian Sorensen will be hoping that, as he continues to work with them more, his team will get better and better.”
How about that introduction to England from Ornella Vignola?
Beth: “It was a truly outstanding debut as Vignola became the first Everton player - male or female - to score a hat trick against Liverpool since the legendary Dixie Dean. Of course, to succeed in the WSL, you need to be consistent and that will be the biggest challenge for the 20-year-old going forward.”
Any other key players to look out for?
Beth: “Defender Martina Fernandez enjoyed an excellent loan spell on Merseyside last season and went on to be named Everton’s Young Player of the Season. She was excellent again against Liverpool, as was forward Katja Snoeijs.”
What will the impact of moving to Goodison Park have?
Beth: “It’s a huge move for Everton. Goodison Park is one of the most iconic stadiums in English football and so it’s a great opportunity for the Women’s team to start writing their own history there. Hopefully, it will encourage more people from Merseyside to get down and watch the team.”
How could Brian Sorensen set-up?
Beth: “Against Liverpool, Everton started the game in a 4-3-2-1, with Vignola as a lone striker up front. However, throughout the game that formation shifted - at times switching into a 4-2-2 - and that tactical flexibility is something Sorensen really values in his players.”
What could we expect on Sunday?
Beth: “I think it should be a really good game as both of these teams like to get their foot on the ball and play through the thirds. With it being the first game at Goodison Park, too, the atmosphere should be really exciting.”