We return to Women’s Super League action on Sunday when we face Reading at Adams Park.
THE STORY SO FAR
After spending two weeks away on international duty, our stars will be keen to return to winning ways in the WSL, following their disappointing 2-1 home defeat to champions Chelsea.
Despite placing the Blues defence under some late pressure thanks to a fine finish from Vivianne Miedema, our sluggish first-half performance cost us, as we slipped to our second defeat of the season in all competitions.
As a result, we currently trail Manchester City by a single point in the table, but Nick Cushing’s side have played one game more than us. If we’re able to win our game in hand, then we’ll restore our lead at the top by two points.
After conceding twice to Chelsea, three sides boast a better defensive record than us this season - but our attacking talent remains unrivalled.
We’ve scored 47 goals in the WSL this season, averaging 3.91 goals per game, in addition to boasting three of the league’s top five goalscorers.
Miedema tops the chart with 15 goals, while Danielle van de Donk (10) and Jordan Nobbs (9) sit in third and fifth respectively.
THE OPPOSITION
The Royals are currently fifth in the WSL table on 18 points, having picked up five wins and three draws from 12 outings.
Kelly Chambers prides herself on her team’s defensive organisation, and it’s clear to see why when only the top four have conceded fewer goals this season.
Their most impressive results include a 1-0 win over Liverpool, a 3-0 win over Bristol City, and a 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
Former Gunner and England international Fara Williams will be their greatest goalscoring threat on Sunday. The 35-year-old midfielder has scored six goals and assisted twice this season.
ONE TO WATCH
Since returning from injury against West Ham, Kim Little has shown great promise in the final third, dragging defenders out of position and assisting Miedema’s strike against Chelsea.
However, she’s still hunting for her first WSL goal since October 14. The Scotland international plays a vital role in Montemurro’s attacking system – and this is backed up by her stunning start to the season.
Prior to injury, Little had recorded four goals and four assists in just four appearances, which at the time was more direct goal contributions than other WSL player.
THE MANAGER’S NOTES
“They’re a difficult side, especially away from home,” said Joe Montemurro. “We’ll just see who’s available and who’s ready to go. After the international break it’s difficult because you don’t know how they’re going to come back, so we’re in an interesting position now, so hopefully we can find the energy and belief again to keep going.”
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