You may hear the name ‘Kristie Mewis’ circulating headlines over the next few days, following the midfielder’s instantaneous impact upon returning to the pitch for the U.S. women’s national team in a friendly against the Netherlands last Friday. 10 minutes after coming off of the bench, Mewis received a pass from teammate Lynn Williams, took a few touches, and buried a shot past Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal, sealing a comfortable 2-0 win for the United States.

Mewis made scoring a goal against an international opponent look easy, as if it’s a part of her regular routine. But here’s the catch. Ahead of Friday’s game, Mewis had not made an appearance for her country since 2014.

To start, let’s revisit Mewis’s career. In 2013 and 2014, Mewis received call-ups to the U.S. women’s national team, earning 15 caps for her country before abruptly falling off of the national team radar. In terms of the National Women’s Soccer League, Mewis was traded a total of five times from 2013-2017 (with two of those trades happening only a week apart), bouncing from FC Kansas City to the Boston Breakers, then to the Washington Spirit, then to the Chicago Red Stars, before finally landing on the Houston Dash roster.

Needless to say, it was a tumultuous time for the young player — and just when she had begun to find her footing with the Dash, Mewis tore her ACL in a match against the Washington Spirit in May 2018.

Mewis’s injury was certainly a tough pill to swallow, as she was just beginning to return to the level of play that earned her two national call-ups four and five years prior. Now, she would be restricted to the sidelines for the remainder of the year. As teammate Rachel Daly would put it, “[The loss of Mewis] is obviously so difficult because I think she has been our best player this year.”

And indeed, she had — Mewis started all 11 of her appearances with the Dash that season, recording 919 minutes of playing time and scoring two goals. But unbeknownst to Mewis and her teammates, her injury would quickly prove to be a turning point in her playing career.

Given that an ACL injury takes anywhere from eight to twelve months to recover from, Mewis suddenly found herself coming to grips with the harsh reality that she had been okay with being ‘average’.

As reported by Seth Vertelney in October of this year, Mewis said of her injury: “Me tearing my ACL was kind of a blessing in disguise because I feel like it just woke me up a little bit. It just made me ask myself, ‘Kristie, what are you doing? You need to come back from this. You’re being OK with being 70 or 80 percent,’” she continued, “It was just hard to admit to myself that I wasn’t happy with where I was. But I think I just woke up one day and was like, ‘Let’s do this.’”

It was with that mindset that Mewis would return to the Dash in 2019, even better than before. She appeared in 22 matches for Houston, 20 in which she was a member of the starting line-up, logging 1,818 minutes of playing time, 4 goals, and an assist. But Mewis refused to stop there — she was on the cusp of greatness, which was further affirmed upon the receipt of her third national team call-up in November of 2019.

For Mewis, she could only go up from there—that is, until COVID-19 brought the 2020 NWSL season to a sudden halt. Amidst great uncertainty surrounding how the NWSL (and sports in general) would proceed, the NWSL Challenge Cup was announced. The first-time event would bring eight NWSL teams into a ‘bubble’ in late June, with each team playing a total of four matches in a preliminary round before a subsequent knockout tournament.

The Dash, who finished the 2019 season with a 7-5-12 record and in seventh place in league standings, were given +2,000 odds to win the Cup by the William Hill Sports Book — superior only to Sky Blue FC and the Orlando Pride, who were forced to opt out of the tournament due to a slew of positive COVID-19 tests within their organization.

Despite the unfavorable circumstances, Mewis and her team were determined to prove themselves, cruising through the preliminaries of the tournament and eventually defeating the Utah Royals in penalty kicks to advance past the quarterfinals. Now, the chance to punch their ticket to the Challenge Cup final was well within reach with a win over the Portland Thorns. A late goal by Rachel Daly would send Houston to the final, where they went on to secure a comfortable 2-0 win over the Chicago Red Stars, defying the odds to earn their first hardware in club history.

An integral part of the Challenge Cup victory, Mewis started 7 matches and played 558 minutes, notching a goal and an assist in the process.

In the subsequent NWSL Fall Series, the Dash boasted a 3-1-0 record, finishing the short-lived 2020 season at second place in the table. Likewise dominant were Mewis’ stats through the four matches — she notched two goals and five assists, continuing to reach new heights. The cherry on top? Being called into the USWNT team training camp for the fast-approaching friendly against the Netherlands.

Back in December, Mewis discussed her initial return to the USWNT in an interview with American Soccer Now.

“Putting the U.S. crest on again was pretty cool. I always hoped I would be able to do it again. It was definitely a special moment for me since it has been a really long time,” she said. “I have made huge strides to get back. But I obviously don’t want to just get back to where I was, I want to get back to an even better place. So that’s what I’m striving for. I want to be better than I was before I tore my ACL. I don’t just want to be the same.”

Mewis certainly isn’t the same player she was before her injury — in fact, she is exponentially better — and others are starting to take notice. In only 30 minutes of play during Friday’s friendly, she made a lasting impression on the national team, inscribing her name on the scoresheet with the added bonus of getting to celebrate the achievement alongside her sister, Sam.

Inclusion for the Olympics may still be a long shot, but at just 29 years of age, Mewis still has time to work her way into the national team rotation. Friday’s goal may have been a remarkable milestone in her six-year comeback, but if Mewis has proved anything over the past year and a half, it’s that she’s no longer settling for just being good enough. She wants to be great, and it’s time we take notice.

MATCH INFO:

United States 2, Netherlands 0

GOALS:

Rose Lavelle (Christen Press), 41’

Kristie Mewis (Lynn Williams), 70’

A grueling 261 days have passed since the U.S. women’s national team last took the pitch. As you may imagine, Friday afternoon’s friendly was widely anticipated for more reasons than one — yes, the match marked the long-awaited return of the USWNT, but even more thrilling was the opportunity to witness a rematch of last year’s World Cup Final between the U.S. and the Netherlands.

The game took place in Rat Verleigh Stadium in Breda, with the U.S. once again winning comfortably by a score of 2-0 thanks to goals from Rose Lavelle and Kristie Mewis.

Prior to the match, USWNT players released a statement on their social media accounts, highlighting what an honor it was to represent America and that it was their subsequent duty to demand that the liberties and freedoms that the country was founded upon be extended to everyone. As the national anthem played, each USWNT player donned a pullover with the message “Black Lives Matter,” with a majority of players taking a knee to further convey their stance against racial injustice.

“Today, we wear Black Lives Matter to affirm human decency. We protest against racial injustice and police brutality against Black people,” the statement read. “We protest against the racist infrastructures that do not provide equal opportunity for black and brown people to fulfill their dreams, including playing on this team. As the United States Women’s National team players, we collectively work toward a society where the American ideals are upheld, and Black lives are no longer systemically targeted.”

Here’s how the action unfolded:

The United States wasted no time after the opening whistle blew. With only one minute gone in the first half, Tobin Heath took the ball to the goal line, slotting a cross intended for Lynn Williams who made herself available in the box. Despite Williams’ best attempt to get a foot on the ball, her line of sight was restricted by the Dutch defense, leading to the demise of a near chance for the Americans. Later, in the 18th minute, Williams would take advantage of another scoring chance, curving a shot from outside the eighteen that sailed just over the crossbar.

In the 29th minute, Tobin Heath slipped a through ball to Christen Press, who utilized her quick footwork to beat Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal and score what would have been the go-ahead goal the U.S. had been desperately working towards. Unfortunately, Press was called offside by what seemed a mere step, and the goal was scratched, maintaining the 0-0 deadlock.

The deadlock would not last much longer, however, as Christen Press placed a ball into the path of Rose Lavelle, who neatly cut the ball to her left foot, rendering Dutch defender Dominique Bloodworth off balance. Lavelle then ripped a shot from just inside the eighteen and into the upper ninety, scoring her third national team goal of the year to put the United States up 1-0 as the first half wound to a close. (Hopefully Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor took note of how lethal Lavelle can be when she plays in her actual position.)

Her goal even received a nod from the FA Women’s Super League:

The hero of the second half was none other than Kristie Mewis, who returned to the pitch for the U.S. women’s national team for the first time since 2014 after a standout year with the Houston Dash. Replacing Rose Lavelle in the 60th minute, Mewis made an instant impact — in the form of receiving a through ball from Lynn Williams in stride, taking a few touches and scoring her second-ever national goal to give the United States a 2-0 advantage through 70 minutes of play.

First to congratulate her on such an achievement? Her younger sister Sam, of course. Let’s add watching the Mewis duo in action to the list of things to look forward to next year, shall we?

Finally, in what was nearly an astounding finish in an already-incredible performance for the United States, Midge Purce set Alex Morgan up just outside the eighteen. In a showcase of her skill on the ball, Morgan slipped the ball past Veenendaal and into the net, scoring her first goal since her return to play following the birth of her daughter.

However, Morgan’s goal met a similar fate to that of Christen Press’ earlier in the match and was called offsides, restricting the United States’ lead to two goals.

As the clock wound down, the Dutch worked desperately to cut the United States’ lead in half, but no dice, as the States secured yet another 2-0 victory over the Netherlands, matching the score of last year’s World Cup Final.

Given that the USWNT has not played a match together in over eight months, both the win and team performance in the friendly show immense promise for the future — not to mention both goals came from players who could be serious contributors next year and thereafter.

Though it’s uncertain exactly when we will get to see the U.S. women’s national team take the field again, it was refreshing to witness a team beloved by so many indicate that they are ready to pick up right where they left off — by cementing their status as the best in the world.

It’s July 2nd, 2019 — the Women’s World Cup is in full force, and the U.S. women’s national team is taking on England in hopes of securing their fifth appearance in a World Cup final. With only 30 minutes played, the two teams are deadlocked at 1-1: Christen Press is on the scoresheet for the States and Ellen White has notched one for England. In the 31st minute, Alex Morgan breaks the tie, scoring what will ultimately be the game-winning goal for the Americans.

In an instantly-iconic celebration, Morgan races to the sidelines and gestures as if she is sipping tea. As you might expect, it’s a controversial move. Following the game, some call the gesture “legendary,” “amazing,” and “all in good fun,” while others call it “utterly classless” and “distasteful.”

Though it may not have been Morgan’s intention, the celebration certainly ruffled some feathers, being seen as a parody of the English and their love of tea. Morgan later clarified that the celebration was “not a hit to England in any way,” and she didn’t mince words when adding her thoughts on the disparities between what is acceptable from male and female athletes.

“I feel there is some double-standard for females in sports to feel like we have to be humble in our successes and have to celebrate, but not too much,” she told reporters. “You see men celebrating all around the world in big tournaments, you know, grabbing their sacks or whatever it is. And when I look at sipping a cup of tea, I’m a little taken aback, and you have to laugh about it to see all the criticism. So, I’m a little disappointed in that.”

Even with Morgan herself insisting that the celebration wasn’t a jab at England, it is unsurprising that Morgan’s move to the United Kingdom upon signing with Tottenham Hotspur this fall was met with mixed reactions. Many English soccer fans still had a bad taste in their mouth following that World Cup semi-final.

While it is no secret that Morgan has incredible potential with the Spurs, she is off to a rough start with her new club — and most recently, Morgan missed a penalty kick that cost Tottenham a much-needed win against Arsenal on November 18th.

Video clips and photos of Morgan’s “tea-sipping” celebration began to resurface as several Spurs fans took to Twitter to express their disdain for the American, asking “how that tea tastes now.”

In the eyes of English football fans, Morgan needs to put her money where her mouth is… and quickly. It goes without saying that the expectations are high. But who better to shatter high expectations than Alex Morgan?

Tottenham is in desperate need of an impact player in the attacking third, and given Morgan’s impressive track record with her former teams, she could absolutely fill this void.

It’s worth noting that immediately following the loss against Arsenal, Tottenham head coaches Karen Hills and Juan Amoros were relieved of their duties and later replaced by former Arsenal assistant manager Rehanne Skinner. Hopefully, Skinner will be able to utilize Morgan in a way that allows her to showcase what she does best — getting on the scoresheet. However, a striker like Morgan is only as good as the offense that surrounds her. It will certainly take some tweaks to the Spurs lineup, but the potential to turn the season around is there.

The Spurs take the pitch again on December 6th, where they’ll face off against eighth-place squad Brighton & Hove Albion. Here’s hoping that we will witness Tottenham’s first win in the 2020/2021 season, and that Alex Morgan can be an integral part of it all.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

December 5th 

Aston Villa vs. Manchester United @ 7:30 a.m. EST

December 6th

Everton vs. Manchester City @ 8:00 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Birmingham City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Chelsea vs. West Ham @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Tottenham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Reading FC vs. Bristol City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

As the FA Women’s Super League wrapped up a busy weekend full of action, we witnessed Chelsea battle into the top three in WSL standings in the highly-anticipated London derby, Tobin Heath give yet another taste of what she brings to the table for Manchester United, Alex Morgan make her starting debut for Tottenham — the list goes on.

So what did we learn from this latest Women’s Football Weekend, and what does it mean for the rest of the 2020/2021 season?

1) Tobin Heath is positioning herself for instant stardom in Manchester.

Heath joined U.S. women’s national teammate Christen Press in a move to the United Kingdom, signing with Manchester United in September. A sensational offensive player, Heath has recorded 33 goals and 40 assists in 168 appearances for the United States, winning two World Cups and two Olympic goal medals with the team. Just as impressive are her stats with the Portland Thorns, with whom she played six seasons — in 70 appearances with the Thorns, Heath logged 13 goals and 21 assists, with 10 of those assists taking place in a single season.

It is obvious that Heath is not only excellent at scoring goals but at creating offense, a skill she has certainly carried over to Manchester United. On everyone’s radar following the weekend was Heath’s laser of a goal to put United on the board during the Manchester derby. A defensive error by Lucy Bronze was quickly intercepted by Heath, who bent a shot over the hands of City goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck.

Twitter reacted accordingly:

Heath’s presence up top has certainly been felt within the Women’s Super League, with the American already contributing two goals and an assist in United’s seven matches played. It seems that leaving an early impression was Heath’s goal upon her entrance to the league, as she disclosed in an introductory interview with Mark Froggatt:

“I know it is an ambition for this club to compete against the teams that have historically been around for longer and have a stronger history in the WSL. Coming in as a younger team and wanting to make my mark immediately in this league is important, and to build the team in the best way, and to be committed to the players, and the organization, is critical.”

Should Heath continue the trajectory she is on, it is safe to say that she is propelling herself to instant stardom for Manchester United. The rest of the WSL should be on alert.

2) Given time, Alex Morgan can become Tottenham’s saving grace.

Also making headlines this weekend was Alex Morgan, who made her starting debut with Tottenham in Saturday’s match against Bristol City, playing for 45 minutes. Earlier in the season, Morgan came off the bench to make her first appearance for her new club, playing 21 minutes against Reading FC and helping to snap Tottenham’s four-game losing streak with a much-needed draw.

Though Morgan has had to ease into her return to soccer following the birth of her daughter, Charlie, only six months ago, the addition of the striker to the Spurs’ starting lineup is promising — and given time, Morgan can become a sure-fire difference maker for the squad.

One brief look at Morgan’s career can tell you everything you need to know. She is a monster on offense — in 169 appearances with the United States, Morgan has netted 107 goals and assisted another 43, picking up two World Cup wins and an Olympic gold medal along the way. During her tenure in the National Women’s Soccer League, Morgan spent time with the Western New York Flash, the Portland Thorns, and the Orlando Pride, for which she scored a combined 37 goals in 102 games with the three clubs. Undoubtedly, Morgan fills a major void for Tottenham simply given her ability to create offense and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

In seven matches played, the Spurs have only scored six goals and have yet to win a single game during the 2020/2021 season, currently holding a 0-3-4 record. For lack of a better word, Tottenham’s start to the season has been an atrocity, landing them one spot above the relegation zone, superior only to Bristol City, whom the Spurs tied this weekend. [Editor’s note: Tottenham fired their co-head coaches Karen Hills and Juan Amoros Thursday morning. They shortly after named Rehanne Skinner to the position.]

If Morgan is utilized correctly, she can be the remedy that Tottenham needs to meet their full potential. Though she has yet to make an impact, it’s only a matter of time before she will erupt. As the USWNT star is gradually allotted more playing time, there’s no doubt she will find her groove — and open her scoring account along the way. As far as the Spurs are concerned, the sooner Morgan becomes a permanent member of the starting lineup, the better.

3) Put some respect on Chelsea’s name — they’ve earned it

Finally, Chelsea and Arsenal faced off in the much-anticipated London derby — and for Chelsea, a break into the top three was well within their grasp with a win or a draw during the match. Though Arsenal drew first blood when Beth Mead scored what seemed to be a late game-winner, Chelsea fought back to equalize as Pernille Harder played in a cross that resulted in an own goal.

With the result, Chelsea remains undefeated, drawing two and winning four of their six contests this season. In fact, only one other undefeated team remains: Manchester United.

Chelsea is considered a “Big Three” in the league and has had no problem handling fellow “Big Three” talents Arsenal and Manchester City, having yet to lose to either opponent this year. Earlier this season, Chelsea swiftly handed Manchester City a 3-1 loss. More recently, the squad held Arsenal to one goal in the aforementioned London derby. This is no small feat, as Arsenal’s roster holds three of the league’s top scorers in Caitlin Foord, Vivianne Miedema, and Jill Roord.

After this weekend’s performance, it is no question that Chelsea is a talented squad and could very well finish in first place in the WSL standings this season, but they have not received nearly the amount of credit that they deserve. From their goalkeeping to their midfielder core to their strikers, there is no weak link — a facet that is very difficult to come by in the fight for talent among Women’s Super League teams. Chelsea currently sits at third place in the table, though only two points separate them from the first place slot.

Stay tuned as Chelsea looks to continue their undefeated streak in a match against West Ham United on December 6th.

Up next in the Women’s Super League: 
December 5th 

Aston Villa vs. Manchester United @ 7:30 a.m. EST

December 6th

Everton vs. Manchester City @ 8:00 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Birmingham City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Chelsea vs. West Ham @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Tottenham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Reading FC vs. Bristol City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

MATCH INFO:

Chelsea 1, Arsenal 1 (Full highlights)

GOALS: 

Beth Mead (Vivianne Miedema), 86’

Lotte Wubben-Moy (OG), 90’

In a continuation of what was already a stellar women’s football weekend in the FA Women’s Super League, Chelsea and Arsenal faced off in the much-anticipated London derby. The match found second-place Arsenal vying to move back into first place following a Manchester United draw the morning before. As for Chelsea, a win or a tie in the match meant breaking into the top three in WSL standings.

Here’s how the action unfolded:

Late in a purely defensive first half, Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedema came up with the ball in the Chelsea box, settled the ball at her feet, and attempted a shot, only to be met with the blockade that was Chelsea’s defense. The ball was then scooped up by goalkeeper Ann Katrin-Berger to render Arsenal scoreless through 38 minutes of play.

Later, in the 43rd minute, a Chelsea turnover in their defensive third saw Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord intercept the ball and lift a shot from well past the eighteen — the ball struck the crossbar as Berger dove to make the save, bounced up to hit the crossbar a second time, and deflected back into the path of Arsenal’s Beth Mead. Already on her feet again was Berger, however, and the ball was punched out to end Arsenal’s near-scoring drive to conclude the first half in a 0-0 deadlock.

With only 7 shots between the two sides during the first half, scoring the go-ahead goal was a top priority. In the opening minutes of the second half, Chelsea forward Bethany England received a pass outside the eighteen and lofted a shot that sailed just over the crossbar. England has been a key contributor for Chelsea this season, scoring three goals and recording two assists in five appearances for the club, but she couldn’t find the back of the net on this one.

Still scoreless after 72 minutes of play, Chelsea began knocking on the door in hopes of gaining the upper hand over their opponent late into the match. Ji So-Yun slotted a cross into the box, looking for Sam Kerr, but the ball was cleared to the feet of Pernille Harder. Harder attempted to finish the close-range shot but was denied by Arsenal goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger.

Finally, Arsenal got the scoring opportunity they had been vying for all game — in a showcase of her speed and ability on the ball, Vivianne Miedema streaked past Chelsea’s defense to play in a cross, finding Beth Mead in the box. Sliding to meet the cross, Mead scored to give Arsenal the 1-0 advantage in the 86th minute.

Only for a moment did it seem that Mead’s goal had won the match for Arsenal, as Chelsea quickly transitioned into a counterattack. With Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy hot on her back, Pernille Harder took the ball to the goal line, attempting to play in a cross from the right wing. An unfortunate series of events would follow for Arsenal, as the cross deflected off of Wubben-Moy and looped into her own goal — tying the game at 1-1 with only 5 minutes of stoppage time left to play.

As the final minutes ticked away, Sam Kerr fired a shot that fell just wide of the net, nearly logging the game-winner for Chelsea but coming up short.

The match ended in a 1-1 tie as both squads secured a point. With the result, Arsenal remains in second place with 16 points, and Chelsea breaks into third place with 14 points. Still well within reach for both teams is the first place spot in the WSL standings, as Arsenal takes on Birmingham City and Chelsea faces off against West Ham on December 6th.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

December 5th 

Aston Villa vs. Manchester United @ 7:30 a.m. EST

December 6th

Everton vs. Manchester City @ 8:00 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Birmingham City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Chelsea vs. West Ham @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Tottenham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Reading FC vs. Bristol City @ 9:00 a.m. EST

In what became a pandemic trend among US women’s national team players, Christen Press joined the American exodus this fall in electing to move to the FA Women’s Super League and join Manchester United alongside fellow national teamer Tobin Heath. Earlier, Manchester City signed Rose Lavelle and Sam Mewis, another USWNT duo, shaking up the soccer world while also setting up an epic Manchester derby, which will finally kick off this Saturday.

“I’m really excited to be joining Manchester United this season,” Press said of her signing. “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to play for such an elite club and beyond ready to get back on the field. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to continue to strive to be my best and to compete for trophies this year.”

In an exclusive interview with Manchester United TV, Press indicated that her entrance into the Women’s Super League will offer a unique test of her skills. “It’s going to be a huge challenge. It always is when you’re changing culture. It’s not just the lifestyle culture, it’s the football culture, it’s the approach in training.”

Press is known for her lethality up top, boasting impressive stats in stints with the Chicago Red Stars, with whom she spent four seasons, the Utah Royals, with whom she spent two seasons, and the US women’s national team. Press has also spent time playing professionally in Sweden during her career.

While with the Red Stars, Press made 60 appearances, notching 35 goals and captaining the team in 2016 and 2017. She was then acquired by the Utah Royals in June of 2018, where she tallied 10 goals and 4 assists in 25 matches. Named to the NWSL Best XI in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019, Press certainly left her mark on the National Women’s Soccer League. Likewise stellar with the USWNT, Press is a two-time World Cup champion and has netted 58 goals and assisted 37 in 138 caps for her country.

Most recently, she was awarded the honorary Golden Ball at the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament and named to the tournament’s Best XI. Many believed this performance marked a turning point in Press’s career on the national team. Under new coach Vlatko Andonovski, she was given the chance to start after largely coming off the bench at the last World Cup under former coach Jill Ellis. And her CONCACAF performance provided all the evidence needed that she should likely keep that starting spot at next summer’s Olympics.

It was never a question of if Press would become an impact player for Manchester United, only a matter of when. Her speed, footwork, and goal-scoring abilities alone make Press an asset for any team fortunate enough to add her to their offense — a fact that is certainly not lost upon Manchester United manager Casey Stoney, who had high praise for the 31 year old.

“Christen is a world-class player and we are thrilled to have her on board at the club. She has a proven record and her stats speak for themselves; she’s a ruthless striker who scores so many different types of goals, and I know she can add some real quality to our squad,” said Stoney, “Christen is also hugely experienced and for me it’s fantastic to add another senior figure like her in the dressing room.”

Thus far, Press has made four appearances for Manchester United during the 2020/2021 season, opening her scoring account in her third match with the club to lift United to a 4-2 win over West Ham United. By chance, fellow USWNT star Tobin Heath scored her first United goal in the very same match. Most recently, Press was commended for her role in Manchester United’s win over “big three” squad Arsenal to take first place in WSL standings, in which she connected with Tobin Heath on two scoring opportunities and made her presence known to the Arsenal defense, leading the charge in the attacking third.

Since the addition of Press and Heath, it has been smooth sailing for Manchester United, who have scored 15 goals in six matches to hold onto a 5-1-0 record, remaining undefeated on the regular season with 16 points. But this is no time for United to catch their breath —still hot on their heels are Arsenal and Chelsea, who currently sit at second and third place in the league with 15 points and 13 points.

On the horizon is this weekend’s much-anticipated Manchester derby, in which Christen Press, Tobin Heath, and a talented Manchester United squad will take on the reigning FA Women’s Cup champion Manchester City, featuring national teammates Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle. It will be well worth getting up early to witness the showdown between these two Manchester units this Saturday, November 14th at 7:30 a.m. EST — set your alarm accordingly! And catch a livestream of the game at AtaFootball.com.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

November 14th 

Manchester United vs. Manchester City @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Aston Villa vs. Birmingham City @ 9:30 a.m. EST

Everton vs. Reading FC @ 11:30 a.m. EST

Bristol City vs. Tottenham @ 1:30 p.m. EST

November 15th

West Ham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Chelsea @ 9:30 a.m. EST

MATCH INFO:

Manchester United 1, Arsenal 0 (Highlights)

GOALS: Ella Toone (Jess Sigsworth) – 83’

With Everton’s sobering 4-0 loss to Chelsea earlier Sunday, a chance to move into first place in WSL standings was well within reach for Manchester United 一 and that was an opportunity United would take advantage of, as the squad handed Arsenal their first loss of the season behind a late goal from midfielder Ella Toone. With 16 points, Manchester City now boasts a 5-1-0 record, remaining undefeated through six matches in the 2020/2021 season.

Here’s how it all went down:

In the opening minutes of the match, Manchester United maintained possession in the attacking third, stringing together passes and creating several early scoring chances in the process. Though their efforts went unrewarded on the scoresheet, it was certainly a promising start for the club against a talented Arsenal squad.

In the 22nd minute of the match, Tobin Heath connected with Christen Press in the box. Looking to draw first blood for United, Press met the cross in the air, redirecting a volley that sailed just over the crossbar.

Later, it was Press knocking on the door again, this time receiving a through ball from Ona Battle, breaking away from two Arsenal defenders with her first touch, and getting off a close-range shot on goal. The chance would be denied by Arsenal goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger to maintain the 0-0 deadlock with only 16 minutes remaining in the first half.

With neither side finding the goal in the first half, finding a go-ahead score was the priority for both squads as they entered the second. In the 46th minute, Tobin Heath curved a shot just over the crossbar and out of bounds, a near-goal that would have given Manchester United the edge they needed to control the contest. With a number of United’s shots on goal resulting from the efforts of Heath and Press, the Americans continued to prove their value to their new club since their move to the UK in September.

After a lackluster performance in the first half, Arsenal found themselves with a refreshed sense of urgency, desperately trying to regain the upper hand in a contest thus far controlled by United. Late in the second half, a pass was fed to midfielder Kim Little, who was left unmarked on the left wing. Little took her space, playing in a cross that found Caitlin Foord making a run into the box. On her first touch, Foord redirected the cross towards the lower ninety but was met with a diving save from United goalkeeper Mary Earps.

Finally, in the 83rd minute, Manchester United got the opportunity they had been vying for all game when forward Jess Sigsworth was given space in the attacking third. In a showcase of her quick footwork and abilities on the ball, Sigsworth remained composed, cutting the ball to her left foot to beat an Arsenal defender and finding teammate Ella Toone just outside the eighteen. On her first touch, Toone slipped a shot towards the left corner of the goal, her attempt hitting the near post and deflecting into the back netting. Toone’s goal would come at an opportune time, granting Manchester United a 1-0 advantage late into the second half and sealing their move into first place in WSL standings.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

November 14th 

Manchester United vs. Manchester City @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Aston Villa vs. Birmingham City @ 9:30 a.m. EST

Everton vs. Reading FC @ 11:30 a.m. EST

Bristol City vs. Tottenham @ 1:30 p.m. EST

November 15th

West Ham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Chelsea @ 9:30 a.m. EST

MATCH INFO:

Manchester United vs. Arsenal

Leigh Sports Village Stadium, Leigh, England

Kickoff: November 8th, 2020 at 7:00 a.m. EST

WHERE TO WATCH: The FA Player

It is shaping up to be an exciting weekend of soccer in the FA Women’s Super League, with six matches set to take place between Saturday and Sunday. On our radar is the upcoming tilt between Arsenal, who currently sits atop the WSL standings, and Manchester United, currently in third. The match will be played this Sunday, November 8th at 7:00 a.m. EST at Leigh Sports Village Stadium in Leigh, England.

Arsenal has had quite an impressive start to the 2020-2021 season, maintaining an undefeated streak and a 5-0-0 record with five wins in five matches played. In those five matches, Arsenal has scored 29 goals while simultaneously only allowing 4 goals against — earning a perfect 15 points to reign atop the league standings, though only a mere 2 points separate Arsenal from both second-place Everton and Manchester United.

Manchester United has likewise been off to a hot start, winning four and drawing one of their five league matches for a 4-1-0 record. Thus far, the squad has recorded 14 goals and limited their opponents to only 5 goals against. Like Everton, Manchester United has 13 points, with only goal differential separating the two.

Needless to say, Sunday’s matchup will be a fight —  especially given Manchester United’s recent additions. In September, the club signed US women’s national team stars Tobin Heath and Christen Press. Heath, who left the Portland Thorns to play in Manchester, has recorded 168 appearances with the USWNT, scoring 33 goals and assisting 40 for her country. Press, on the other hand, joins Manchester United from the Utah Royals and has logged 138 appearances for the USWNT, in which she’s netted 58 goals and assisted 37. The pair have also won two World Cup trophies for the United States in 2015 and 2019.

Since their signings, the two have already left a notable impression on Manchester United — each opening their scoring account with the club in their third appearance for the team, boosting Manchester United to a 4-2 win over West Ham United on October 18th.

Arsenal has not faced Manchester United since the team added Heath and Press to their roster, meaning this match could be anyone’s game. The last meeting between the two squads took place back in February, with Arsenal holding onto a 2-1 win to knock Manchester United out of the Continental Tyres League Cup. Dutch-born forward Vivianne Miedema recorded the brace for Arsenal while Mollie Green notched Manchester United’s lone goal in the late minutes of the match, sparking hope for a comeback that fell short as the final whistle blew.

Providing Everton loses to Chelsea on Sunday, Manchester United has the opportunity to dethrone Arsenal and move into first place in WSL League 1 standings should they secure the win and three points. There’s a lot on the line, which means there’s plenty of reasons to wake up early for this powerhouse showdown on Sunday.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

November 14th 

Manchester United vs. Manchester City @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Aston Villa vs. Birmingham City @ 9:30 a.m. EST

Everton vs. Reading FC @ 11:30 a.m. EST

Bristol City vs. Tottenham @ 1:30 p.m. EST

November 15th

West Ham vs. Brighton & Hove Albion @ 7:30 a.m. EST

Arsenal vs. Chelsea @ 9:30 a.m. EST

In a true show of the talent that lies within the FA Women’s Super League, Manchester City and Everton battled for the title of FA Women’s Cup Champions in a thrilling match that required extra time to decide its winner. Man. City came out victorious behind goals from Sam Mewis, Georgia Stanway and Janine Beckie, winning the tournament for the third time in four seasons and for the second season in a row. USWNT stars Rose Lavelle and Sam Mewis each logged valuable minutes during the match, earning their first silverware with Man. City since their signings in August.

Here’s how the action unfolded.

In the 15th minute, a ball was threaded through to Everton midfielder Hayley Raso, catching the Man. City defense too far upfield. Taking advantage of the breakaway, Raso took her space as Man. City defender Lucy Bronze recovered, gaining on Raso from behind and tripping her to end the scoring drive. The foul would draw a yellow card and give Everton a set-piece opportunity, which the squad was unable to convert.

Fighting for a go-ahead goal, Man. City continued to press the Everton defense, with standouts Chloe Kelly and Sam Mewis leading the charge. With 25 minutes gone, Mewis received a lofted ball just outside the eighteen, taking a touch forward to beat three Everton defenders. Mewis attempted to poke the ball past Everton goalkeeper Alexandra MacIver, but the keeper would deny Mewis’ scoring chance to render the game deadlocked at 0-0.

As the first half began to draw to a close, Man. City had yet to be rewarded for their impressive showing. In the 39th minute, they would get their chance, earning a corner kick that was taken by defender Alex Greenwood. Greenwood played in a near-perfect ball, finding the head of Mewis in the box. The 6-foot midfielder had no trouble redirecting the ball into the back of the net, notching her third regular-season goal in her sixth appearance for the club to put Man. City up 1-0.

In the 55th minute, a Man. City shot rebounded off of the post and to the feet of Chloe Kelly, who fired off a close-range shot that would be denied by MacIver yet again to limit Man. City’s lead to one goal. Everton would level the score five minutes later, in a similar fashion to Mewis’ goal —  a corner kick taken by Izzy Christiansen was headed home by forward Valérie Gauvin, who battled back from an injury earlier in the match to deadlock the game once more at 1-1.

With six minutes of stoppage time on the clock, Man. City’s Caroline Weir played a give-and-go with Chloe Kelly, receiving the ball and firing a shot that deflected off of the crossbar. Both teams fought for a goal that would render them the FA Cup Champions, but neither were successful in their efforts, leaving the match to be decided in extra time.

A hard-fought first half of extra time ensued, highlighted by a Man. City chance which began when a pass was slipped to forward Georgia Stanway. Taking her space, Stanway collided with MacIver, who had abandoned the net in an attempt to make a save. The ball squeaked out from under MacIver, allowing Stanway to maintain possession, but a recovery and clearance from Everton defender Megan Finnigan would serve to fend off the attack.

Finally, in the 111th minute of play, Jess Park played a through ball into the path of Stanway, who ran onto the pass and, on her first touch, put away the go-ahead goal, giving Man. City a 2-1 advantage. Minutes later, it was Stanway on the ball again — this time slotting a pass to Janine Beckie in the box, who scored to seal the FA Women’s Cup Championship title for her squad.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

November 7th 

Manchester City vs. Bristol City @ 10:00 a.m. EST

November 8th 

Chelsea vs. Everton @ 7:00 a.m. EST

Manchester United vs. Arsenal @ 7:00 a.m. EST

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Aston Villa @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Birmingham City vs. West Ham United @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Tottenham vs. Reading FC @ 9:00 a.m. EST

When news of Sam Mewis signing with Manchester City broke back in August, it sent NWSL fans everywhere into a frenzy. In only three seasons with the North Carolina Courage, Mewis had proven herself a highly valuable asset, clocking a grand total of 5,121 minutes of playing time, scoring 14 goals and assisting 11 since 2017.

Still skeptical about her lethality in the midfield? Mewis has the hardware to back it – in her first season with the Courage, she was named to the NWSL Best XI and was a finalist for the NWSL Most Valuable Player Award. Since Mewis’ arrival with the team, the Courage have won three consecutive NWSL Shields in 2017, 2018, and 2019, and most recently were the victors of back-to-back NWSL championships in 2018 and 2019.

Mewis’ stats with the Courage are certainly impressive, and her time with the USWNT has been likewise dominant. In 67 appearances for her country, Mewis has 18 goals, two of which were in the 2019 Women’s World Cup, and 6 assists. Most importantly, she was hoisting the World Cup trophy with her teammates a little over a year ago, sealing her status as a world champion in her fifth season as a professional player… and at only 27 years old.

In terms of Mewis’ move to the Women’s Super League, there had been speculation back in July that Mewis and fellow USWNT teammate Rose Lavelle were headed to Manchester City following the NWSL Challenge Cup. On July 23rd, Meg Linehan, a staff writer at The Athletic, reported that Sam Mewis had already signed with Man. City while Lavelle was still weighing an offer from the club. The headline gained traction immediately and was met with a mixture of shock, excitement, and disbelief, particularly from fans of the North Carolina Courage and the Washington Spirit.

A few weeks later, on August 10th, Mewis’ signing was confirmed by multiple sources, Mewis herself included. In a statement to the North Carolina Courage team, staff, and fans, she wrote, “I have grown so much with this team thanks to the constant challenges from the staff, the love and dedication from my teammates, and the unwavering support from our fans. I’m forever indebted to this club for showing me what it takes to win consistently, and I hope that I’ve demonstrated my gratitude over the years,” Mewis continued, “North Carolina will always have a piece of my heart, and I’m hoping there will be an opportunity to return whenever my time in Manchester concludes.”

As you might guess, Mewis’ arrival in the UK was met with monstrous expectations. Would her talents transfer over to her new team? How long would it take for her to find her “groove” in the Man. City lineup? Would she become an integral part of their midfield? Thus far, the answer has been a resounding “yes.” Beginning as early as a pre-season friendly against Everton, in which Mewis scored a goal and recorded two assists in only 45 minutes of play, the American has left quite an early impression.

With the regular season now well underway, Mewis has continued to exceed the hype, notching two goals for her new club in only five appearances. One of those goals? A game-winner against Arsenal to send Man. City into the Women’s FA Cup Final, of course.

The question is no longer whether Mewis can be an impact player in the FA Women’s Super League. Already, she’s proven to have not missed a step in her transition across the pond. What remains to be seen is if she can carry her new club when it counts the most and add to the the Blues’ already extensive trophy case. Mewis will get her first chance this weekend: tune in this Sunday as Manchester City takes on Everton in the FA Cup Final at 9:30am EST.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE FA WSL:

 

November 7th:

Manchester City vs. Bristol City @ 10:00 a.m. EST

November 8th:

Chelsea vs. Everton @ 7:00 a.m. EST

Manchester United vs. Arsenal @ 7:00 a.m. EST

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Aston Villa @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Birmingham City vs. West Ham United @ 9:00 a.m. EST

Tottenham vs. Reading FC @ 9:00 a.m. EST