WSL Talking Points: Leah Williamson’s Return and Key Matches
Leah Williamson returned to competitive action for Arsenal after 139 days, coming on as an 82nd-minute substitute against Everton. This was her first match since July’s Euros final. Her return is being managed carefully, and she could feature again versus Leuven in the Champions League on Wednesday.
In other WSL matches, Tottenham and Manchester United contested an exciting 3-3 draw. Tottenham had led 3-0 before Fridolina Rolfö scored twice late for United to complete the comeback.
Khadija Shaw scored her 100th goal for Manchester City in her 120th appearance, guiding a 6-1 win over Aston Villa. She became the first City woman to reach a century in the professional era.
Chelsea beat Brighton 3-0, with Sandy Baltimore opening the scoring. Erin Cuthbert’s return strengthened Chelsea’s stability, and Alyssa Thompson also scored.
Liverpool drew 2-2 with West Ham. Gemma Bonner was sent off early in the 19th minute. Mia Enderby equalised for Liverpool, and Beata Olsson struck an injury-time equaliser after Anna Csiki had restored West Ham’s lead.
Leicester’s Shannon O’Brien has hit form since early November. She scored three goals in five games as Leicester sit ninth with nine points. O’Brien scored the winner versus London City Lionesses, showcasing clinical finishing and Leicester’s counter-attacking approach.
The WSL table after 11 games stands as Manchester City with 30 points, Chelsea 24, Arsenal 22, Manchester United 21, Tottenham 20, London City Lionesses 15, Brighton 14, Aston Villa 13, Leicester 9, Everton 8, West Ham 5, and Liverpool 3.
