Tune into today’s edition of Goalside Gossip where we will recap a goal filled matchday 8. Both Manchester teams combine for nine goals (City scoring 7) while Chelsea score five, Liverpool four and Arsenal three. it’s fair to declare that this week was a GOALFEST.

Briston City vs Manchester United (0-2)

Manchester United claimed a 2-0 victory against Bristol City. Hinata Miyazawa's deflected long-range strike and Nikita Parris' unmarked header secured the win early in the second half. Despite Bristol City's resilience and a record crowd, United dominated the first half, creating numerous chances saved by City's goalkeeper Olivia Clark. Managers Marc Skinner and Lauren Smith acknowledged their teams' performances, with Skinner highlighting missed opportunities in the initial half and Smith emphasizing Bristol City's growth against top-tier opponents.

Chelsea vs Leicester City (5-2)

Lauren James showcased her talent as Chelsea secured an entertaining win over Leicester City, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the Women's Super League. James swiftly opened the scoring and capitalized on a defensive lapse to double Chelsea's lead. Leicester showed resilience, with Jutta Rantala narrowing the gap, but Chelsea's Sam Kerr seemingly extended the lead before Leicester's Sam Tierney pulled one back. However, a classy finish by James and a header from substitute Agnes Beever-Jones sealed a 5-1 victory for Chelsea. The win maintained their lead atop the table, while Leicester's winless streak stretched to six games.

Liverpool vs Brighton (4-0)

Gemma Bonner, celebrated for becoming Liverpool's record appearance maker in the WSL era, kick-started her team's commanding victory with a first-half header. Shanice van de Sanden doubled the lead before halftime, followed by Ceri Holland and Sophie Roman Haug adding a goal each in the second half. The match saw Liverpool dominate from the start, with early attempts by Emma Koivisto and an impressive WSL debut by goalkeeper Teagan Micah denying Brighton's chances. Despite Micah's crucial saves, Bonner's precise header and Van de Sanden's clinical finish secured a 4-0 win for Liverpool, marking a strong return after consecutive defeats against top-tier opponents.

Arsenal vs West Ham (3-0)

Beth Mead, making her mark after an 11-month injury absence, secured Arsenal's eighth consecutive Women's Super League win with two first-half goals against West Ham United. Her precise curler and close-range finish contributed to Arsenal's 3-0 lead at halftime, complemented by Frida Maanum's earlier strike that deceived West Ham's goalkeeper Megan Walsh. Despite West Ham's efforts, including Viviane Asseyi hitting the post twice, Arsenal's Manuela Zinsberger denied late attempts, securing the win. The victory sets up a crucial top-of-the-table clash for Arsenal against Chelsea after the international break, while West Ham, despite their efforts, remain narrowly above the bottom side Bristol City on goal difference.

Aston Villa vs Everton (1-2)

Everton secured only their second Women's Super League victory this season with Nathalie Bjorn's penalty, edging out Aston Villa. Sara Holmgaard's cross led to an own goal by Villa's Anna Patten, swiftly followed by Rachel Daly's equalizer for Villa. However, Everton regained the lead through Bjorn's penalty after Heather Payne was fouled. Despite Villa's late pressure, Everton held on for the win. The crucial three points elevate Everton to eighth place, four points clear of relegation, while Villa sits two points behind in 10th. Everton's manager praised the team's resilience and emphasized the importance of focusing on performances to secure future results in their challenging season.

Manchester City vs Tottenham (7-0)

Manchester City dominated Tottenham in a Women's Super League showdown, with Khadija Shaw's first-half hat-trick setting the tone for a remarkable 8-0 victory. Laura Coombs contributed a brace, joined by goals from Lauren Hemp and Jill Roord in the second half. The onslaught ended Spurs' six-match unbeaten league run and propelled City into the Champions League spots. Shaw's display, including a stunning controlled finish, was pivotal, while Roord continued her impressive run since joining from Wolfsburg. The emphatic win elevated Manchester City to third place in the WSL, securing a four-point lead over sixth-placed Tottenham.

Lauren Hemp

Lauren Hemp, a prominent English forward for Manchester City and the national team, began her football journey in Norfolk. Her standout talent earned her multiple accolades, including England Young Player of the Year and several PFA Women's Young Player of the Year titles.

Moving from Norwich City to Bristol City in 2016, Hemp showcased her scoring abilities early on. Her career escalated further when she signed with Manchester City in 2018, solidifying her reputation as a dynamic player.

Internationally, she made impactful strides, debuting for England in 2019 and featuring in the Great Britain women's Olympic football team for the 2020 Olympics. In the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Hemp's goals were crucial in England's historic journey to their first-ever final, notably scoring against China and aiding England's win over Australia in the semi-finals. Her consistent performance and versatility make her an invaluable asset for club and country.

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