Everton Women are targeting an immediate response at Goodison Park after beginning the Women's Super League season with a defeat. Manager Scott Phelan has called for a much-improved performance when his side hosts Charlton Athletic this Sunday.
The Blues sit 11th in the WSL table with zero points from their opening fixture, a 1-0 away loss to Crystal Palace. L. Lloyd-Smith's 34th-minute strike settled that contest, leaving Everton with a goal difference of minus one.
Phelan demands reaction
Speaking after the Palace game, Phelan acknowledged the need for a reaction. "Football does change," he said. "The chances at the end you could see a bit of a reaction, and maybe one could have gone in." His focus has now shifted to the first home game of the campaign. "We are always happy to play at home and we are looking for a much improved performance next week and we need to get some points on the board," Phelan added.
That task is complicated by several new signings not being ready for action. Summer arrivals Noemie Mouchon, Jutta Rantala, and Naomi Layzell, among others, have had disruptive pre-seasons and are not yet available for selection. Club captain Meg Finnigan also remains sidelined as she continues her recovery from an ACL injury.
Charlton's fresh challenge
The visitors, Charlton Athletic, also lost their first game, falling 1-0 at home to Liverpool. Manager Karen Hills oversaw a significant squad overhaul in the summer, with up to ten new players arriving and several contract extensions secured. Their most notable addition is experienced WSL defender Ashleigh Neville, who brings top-flight know-how to the newly promoted side.
Everton's home form was a problem last season, making a strong start at Goodison this term vital. The club's full upcoming schedule can be viewed on the fixtures page.
Substitution investigation
The opening defeat to Palace was followed by off-field controversy. The WSL has launched an investigation after Crystal Palace were reported to have used four substitution windows during the match, exceeding the competition's limit of three. Officials from that game have been stood down from the next round of fixtures while the matter, involving both clubs and the referee body Pro Ref, is reviewed.
Former England striker Ellen White discussed the incident on a podcast, with women's football reporter Tom Garry outlining potential consequences. He noted that if a team is found to have fielded an ineligible player, possible penalties range from a points deduction to a match replay or another punishment decided by a tribunal.
For Everton, the immediate priority is on the pitch. With key players still working towards fitness, Phelan will rely on his available squad to secure a positive result. The match against Charlton Athletic kicks off at 2pm BST on Sunday, 13 September, at Goodison Park. Fans can check the latest team news and player availability on the club's squad page.
