Everton Women will navigate a challenging start to the 2026/27 Women's Super League season with three away fixtures in their opening four matches. The schedule, reported by Royal Blue Mersey, kicks off with a trip to face Crystal Palace at the VBS Community Stadium on September 6.
Scott Phelan's team finished 8th in the final 2025 FA WSL table, securing 23 points from 22 games with a record of seven wins, two draws, and thirteen losses. Their recent form at the end of that campaign was a concern, marked by four consecutive defeats. The club scored 25 goals but conceded 37, finishing with a negative goal difference of twelve.
How will the opening fixtures shape the season?
The away-heavy opening month presents an immediate test. After the opener at Crystal Palace, Everton Women travel to face West Ham United before their first home game at Goodison Park against Charlton Athletic. The first Merseyside derby of the season against Liverpool also falls within this early period, adding significant pressure. The return fixture against Liverpool is scheduled for March 2027. Fans can track the full schedule on our dedicated fixtures page.
This early run will be a key indicator of progress under Phelan. The manager, a former academy graduate, took charge last season and immediately matched the league win total of his predecessor, Brian Sorensen. Sorensen had managed just three WSL victories in 14 games, a tally Phelan equalled in his first three matches in charge.
What is the significance of Everton's away form?
Last season's statistics reveal a curious split in performance. Everton Women claimed 14 of their 23 WSL points on the road, compared to just nine points earned at Goodison Park. They managed only three home wins all season. However, they also possess a strong recent record in away derbies, having won their last five league games on the road against Liverpool.
The team will hope this trend continues as they face a demanding October. Following the opening month, they host Birmingham City and the formidable Manchester United at Goodison. The club's current standings position from last season shows they ended 32 points behind champions Manchester City, highlighting the gap they aim to close.
How have the squad changes affected the team?
A significant summer overhaul has seen seven new signings arrive at Walton Hall Park. This injection of fresh talent aims to address the inconsistencies of the previous campaign, particularly the period of intense pressure the squad faced in October 2025. The new recruits will need to adapt quickly to the demands of Phelan's system and the physical nature of the WSL.
Key figures from last season remain, including Ornella Vignola, who announced herself with a hat-trick on the opening day. The team also recorded a notable victory by defeating Chelsea at Kingsmeadow, proving they can compete with the league's best on their day. The complete squad list details all the personnel available to the manager.
Everton Women begin their 2026/27 WSL season away to Crystal Palace on September 6.
