WSL Week 1 Round-Up: Opening weekend drama from derby shocks to champions’ statements. Here’s the key action from Gameweek 1 — with links to match previews, match reports, and highlights.
Jump to: Merseyside Derby · Arsenal v London City Lionesses · Chelsea v Man City · Tottenham v West Ham · Brighton v Aston Villa · Current Table · What’s Next · WSL hub
Everton 4–1 Liverpool — Dream Debut Hat-trick at Anfield
Everton stunned Liverpool with a 4–1 win at Anfield, powered by a sensational Ornella Vignola hat-trick on her WSL debut. A seismic start that flips early-season expectations on Merseyside.
- Turning point: Everton’s response after Liverpool’s bright start.
- Stat note: A debut hat-trick in the derby — rare and historic.
Arsenal 4–1 London City Lionesses — Smith Screamer Sparks Comeback
London City took the lead, but Arsenal roared back. Olivia Smith blasted a screaming debut goal before subs sealed the deal.
- Takeaway: Arsenal’s squad depth already looks decisive.
Chelsea 2–1 Manchester City — Champions Lay Down an Early Marker
Chelsea opened with an efficient win vs City. Clinical phases in both halves proved the difference in a tight, controlled clash.
- Reading it: Chelsea’s game-state management stands out early on.
Tottenham 1–0 West Ham — Late England Penalty Seals It
Bethany England stepped up late from the spot to give Spurs a winning start in a closely fought battle.
- Managerial highlight: Martin Ho’s structure begins to pay dividends.
Brighton 0–0 Aston Villa — Tight, Tactical, Goalless
The only draw of the weekend. Both sides created half-chances but had to settle for a clean sheet each — tight defensive work but still plenty to build on.
Current WSL Standings
Live league table below — this updates automatically each week.
No WSL standings available yet. Please check back soon.
Players of the Week
- Ornella Vignola (Everton): Derby hat-trick hero.
- Olivia Smith (Arsenal): Debut screamer that turned the tide.
- Bethany England (Spurs): Late winner under pressure.
- Beever-Jones / Hamano (Chelsea): Key attacking bursts in a big win.
What’s Next
Stay tuned to our WSL hub for Gameweek 2 previews, tactical notes, and more.