Everton v Man City WSL preview: Where to watch & kick-off time

Manchester City Women face a tough task on the opening weekend of the WSL season when they travel away to Everton.

The Toffees finished fifth last season but have recruited heavily this summer in an effort to bridge the gap to those elusive Champions League spots.

As for City, they were edged out at the top of the table by Chelsea in 2020/21 by just two points, emphasising how important every match is at the league’s summit.

When is the game?

City face Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday in a 1pm kick-off, and the game is one of six fixtures to take place on the opening weekend of the WSL season.

Where can I watch it?

The match will be broadcast live in the UK on BBC One, following the announcement in March of a landmark TV deal for the WSL.

Team news

Gareth Taylor confirmed in Friday’s press conference that striker Ellen White is nearing a return to the side and was described as “there or thereabouts” on the eve of the game.

Georgia Stanway is also back in contention following a recent operation to aid her breathing, but Ellie Roebuck, Keira Walsh and Lucy Bronze all remain sidelined through knocks. New recruit Filippa Angeldahl will not be available in time having just signed this week.

As for Everton, manager Willie Kirk could hand several summer signings a debut, with the likes of Toni Duggan, Nathalie Bjorn and Hanna Bennison all options.

Form guide

City drew 1-1 against Real Madrid on Tuesday night, with Caroline Weir netting for the visitors in Madrid.

Meanwhile, Saturday’s hosts beat Hibernian 2-0 last weekend in their final summer pre-season outing.

Head-to-head record

City have won all 10 of their WSL meetings with Everton, more victories than they’ve managed against any other side in the division.

Last season, the Blues comfortably beat the Toffees 3-0 at Walton Hall Park, before a late Keira Walsh strike ensured Taylor’s side claimed a 1-0 victory at the Academy Stadium in March.