Sky Sports delivered a comprehensive recap of Sunday’s fixtures in the Women’s Super League, highlighting the immediate impact of fresh acquisitions for both Arsenal and Tottenham, as well as the strong starts from Manchester City and other clubs. Arsenal introduced 19‑year‑old winger Lisa Baum to the league with a debut that could not have been more decisive. Within the first ten minutes, Baum weaved past multiple defenders before unleashing a precise strike that curled into the top‑left corner of the net, giving the Gunners a 1‑0 lead against Brighton. Her composure and technical skill set the tone for a side that has been reshaped by several high‑profile signings, including Misa, Georgia Stanway and Ona Battle.
Although Arsenal pressed for a second goal, they fell short of the clinical finishing that has become their hallmark, with Alessia Russo and Stina Blackstenius both missing clear chances in front of goal. Brighton, under the guidance of manager Renee Slegers, were forced to retreat into a disciplined defensive shape after conceding early. Despite the loss, Slegers could take heart from the resilience shown by her side and the promising signs of her new coach Arturo Ruiz, who oversaw a spirited performance in his inaugural match. At the other end of the league, Tottenham opened their campaign with a convincing 3‑1 triumph over West Ham United.
The Hammers, who brought in ten new players during the summer window, struggled to find cohesion, allowing Spurs to dominate possession and dictate the pace of the game. The standout for Tottenham was newcomer Kirsty Hanson, who marked her debut with a brace.
Her first goal came from a superbly timed run that saw her receive a pass from Signe Gaupset and finish with a powerful, curling effort from outside the box. Her second came later in the match when she collected the ball on the edge of the penalty area, turned away from her marker and smashed a low shot into the top corner, leaving West Ham keeper Constance Picaud with no chance. Gaupset, who opened the scoring, reacted quickest to a loose ball, slotting it home with a calm finish after the ball bounced off the post.
She then displayed her vision by delivering a well‑timed pass that set up Hanson’s first strike. Although Spurs had additional opportunities in the second half, with Cathinka Tandberg and Julie Blakstad both missing clear chances, they eventually sealed the win with Hanson’s second goal. West Ham managed a consolation goal in stoppage time through Viviane Asseyi, but the late effort was insufficient to alter the outcome. Tottenham’s performance echoed their dominant display against the Hammers last season, but this time the victory was even more emphatic.
Manchester City, the reigning champions, experienced a sluggish start against Birmingham City but quickly found their rhythm after the break. Mary Fowler broke the deadlock in the 49th minute with a low, precise shot that nestled into the bottom right corner.
Six minutes later, Khadija Shaw rose highest to meet a corner from Kerstin Casparij, heading the ball into the net for her first goal of the match. Beth Mead, making her debut for City off the bench, provided the assist for Shaw’s second goal of the afternoon, a well‑timed header that extended the lead to 3‑0.
The champions’ dominance was briefly marred by a defensive lapse when Jade Rose was caught out of position, allowing Oceane Hurtre to score a late consolation goal for Birmingham. Nonetheless, City’s 3‑0 win marked a confident start to their title defence. Liverpool, who endured a protracted wait for their first WSL victory last season, wasted no time this year, overwhelming newly promoted Charlton Athletic 4‑0. Central defender Grace Fisk made headlines by scoring the opening two goals.
Her first came inside eight minutes when she tapped in a cross that crossed the line. Her second was a spectacular strike from the edge of the box after a cut‑back from debutant Vivien Endemann, who had already impressed with her movement and vision.
Endemann continued to make her mark by netting a thunderous drive just after the hour mark, showcasing her ability to create space and finish with power. The final goal came from Cornelia Kapocs, who converted a stoppage‑time penalty to seal the comprehensive victory. Charlton struggled to threaten despite the scoreline, and Liverpool’s win placed them at the summit of the league after the opening weekend.
Crystal Palace, the sole promoted side to secure three points on the opening weekend, earned a 1‑0 win over Everton. Lexi Lloyd‑Smith, returning to the top flight after a season in the second tier, scored the decisive goal in the 34th minute on her debut.
Although her second‑half effort was disallowed for offside, Palace held firm under pressure from Everton and maintained their lead to claim all three points. Overall, the Sunday fixtures underscored the immediate influence of new signings across the league, with young talents like Lisa Baum and Kirsty Hanson making instant impacts. Defensive solidity, creative midfield play, and clinical finishing were on display, setting an exciting tone for the remainder of the Women’s Super League season.