bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 0:14:02 GMT
Wednesday 27th March 2024 - UEFA Women's Champions League - Quarter-finals - 2nd Leg
Chelsea v Ajax (agg: 3-0) - 8pm KOi.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/19/21/82657275-13215911-image-a-3_1710882385908.jpgChampions League will not define Chelsea era - Emma HayesEmma Hayes says her time at Chelsea will not be defined by winning this season's Women's Champions League. The Blues head into Wednesday's quarter-final second leg against Ajax at Stamford Bridge with a 3-0 lead. Hayes is aiming to win Chelsea's first European title in her final season with the club after 12 years in charge. "Of course if I was able to win the Champions League in my time here it would be another unbelievable achievement," she said. "But I've said it time and time again, for my era to be defined by one competition is probably not what matters most to me," added the 47-year-old Hayes, who will take over the United States women's side at the end of the season. "What matters most beyond the winning over the years is that I will leave the shirt in a better place and that's probably the thing I am most invested in." A convincing performance at the Johan Cruyff Arena ensured Chelsea came out on top in the first-leg tie against Ajax thanks to goals from Sjoeke Nusken and Lauren James. But Hayes warned against complacency if her side want to become back-to-back semi-finalists in the competition. "The fear of losing, or the fear of not being in that semi-final, is a big a drive as the desire to win it - in fact, it's more," she added in Tuesday's pre-match news conference. "There is no-one in our dressing room that will take tomorrow's game lightly or think for one minute, just because we're winning 3-0, that the game is over. That is a mistake. "When a team has nothing to lose at 3-0 down, they play with freedom, they play in a different way to express themselves. They are often the most dangerous opponents. For sure we don't take tomorrow lightly." Colombian striker Mayra Ramirez is fit to play, but Hayes confirmed Swedish defender Nathalie Bjorn "didn't last training" so will not be available for selection.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 0:19:18 GMT
Sarina Wiegman: Player-coach relationships 'very inappropriate', says England manager..By Emma Sanders, BBC Sport.ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/73E9/production/_132737692_gettyimages-2039732532-1.jpgEngland manager Sarina Wiegman has described player-coach relationships in women's football as "very inappropriate" and "not healthy". Leicester City boss Willie Kirk is being investigated by the club following an allegation of a player-coach relationship. A spokesperson for the Foxes said the 45-year-old was "assisting the club with an internal process". "I think player-coach relationships are very inappropriate," said Wiegman. "We should not accept that and it's not healthy. That is basically what it is. In our environment, it's a professional one. It's all about performing and it should always be safe. Things can happen, but it's inappropriate and we all should be very aware of that." Club-by-club - what have WSL managers said on player-coach relationships?
Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall: "I think it's very inappropriate for a number of reasons. It's a clear no with relationships between player and manager." Aston Villa manager Carla Ward: "Our job and our duty is to protect players, first and foremost. So to cross that line is unacceptable and it can't happen." Bristol City manager Lauren Smith: "My view is that there's no grey area. It's unacceptable and it shouldn't happen." Chelsea manager Emma Hayes: "Player-coach relationships are inappropriate. We have to look it at in the context of where the game has come from. We're in a professional era now where the expectation in place for players and coaches is such that all of our focus and attention has got to be on having the top standards." Everton manager Brian Sorensen: "It's not acceptable and it shouldn't happen." Liverpool manager Matt Beard: "First and foremost, I don't think player-coach relationships should happen." Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor: "I think player-coach is inappropriate. We've seen it happen, but when a person holds a position of power it's really not the right thing. For me, player and staff is not acceptable." Manchester United assistant manager Charlotte Healy: "It's not acceptable. Our primary job is to provide a duty of care for players. Their safety and their welfare is the most important thing. The women's game is professional. My honest opinion is that our behaviours have to match that." Tottenham manager Robert Vilahamn: "I think it's totally not acceptable. As a coach, I am in a power position with players and staff." Interim Brighton manager Mikey Harris said he was "not really comfortable" to answer a question about player-coach relationships at other clubs that he does not have "enough context for". West Ham would not allow any questions in their news conference. Leicester City assistant manager Jennifer Foster said she had no further comment to make.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 19:55:01 GMT
Wednesday 27th March 2024 - UEFA Women's Champions League - Quarter-finals - 2nd Leg
Chelsea v Ajax (agg: 3-0) - 8pm KO
ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/fef00104-a55c-4d0c-bba1-6f0912e856cb.png
Chelsea XI: Musovic, Lawrence, Carter, Buchanan, Perisset, Ingle, Cuthbert, Reiten, Kirby, Beever-Jones, Ramirez. Subs: Hampton, Berger, Nusken, Leupolz, Macario, James, Kaneryd, Charles, Cankovic. Ajax XI: Van Eijk, Van de Velde, Leuchter, Spitse, N Noordam, Grant, T Hoekstra, van Gool, de Klonia, de Sanders, Kardinaal. Subs: Nienhuis, van der Wal, Verhoeve, I Hoekstra, D Noordman, Jansen, Keijzer, Sabajo, Keukelaar, Tolhoek. ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/594/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/d4d14360-8557-4136-8e88-6a00c287a364.jpgChelsea lost 4-0 to Barcelona in the 2021 Champions League final
ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/556e8ca9-4dde-4681-aa40-8682a1b66260.png
ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/594/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/e12bef0e-2f47-4a25-a5f0-0d7e01788577.jpg Ajax midfielder Lily Yohannes (16) faced Chelsea in the opening leg but picked up a yellow card and is now suspended for the return leg.ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/795e1f01-aba0-408c-897f-4c17db6ea382.pngErin Cuthbert said: "It's a great lead but by no means is it over. They're a good team and have nothing to lose, so they'll be coming at us all guns blazing." ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/594/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/fbfe4916-cb71-4138-8725-623b77809b4a.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/3c20a923-48cc-4f88-b27a-531899c10f9b.png
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 19:59:31 GMT
Wednesday 27th March 2024 - UEFA Women's Champions League - Quarter-finals - 2nd Leg - Result
Lyon 4 Benfica 1 (agg: 6-2)ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/27/30f586cb-ea66-4007-ab3c-523fa364aa17.pngEight-time Women's Champions League winners Lyon have become the first side into the semi-finals thanks to a 4-1 win over Benfica earlier today to clinch a 6-2 victory on aggregate. Having won 2-1 in Portugal, Delphine Cascarino stretched Lyon's lead, before Marie-Yasmine Alidou made it 1-1 on the night in the second leg just before half-time. But Lyon pulled clear after the break. Cascarino got a second before two late goals from Kadidiatou Diani sealed the success to set up a semi-final against either Paris St-Germain or Hacken.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 20:08:31 GMT
Steph Houghton: Manchester City defender and ex-England captain to retire..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/AA0D/production/_133033534_houghton.jpg Steph Houghton has won 121 caps for England, while representing Sunderland, Leeds, Arsenal and Manchester City at club levelManchester City defender and former England captain Steph Houghton will retire at the end of the current Women's Super League season. Houghton, 35, is City's record appearance holder and is part of the squad in contention to win the WSL title this season. Houghton has 121 England caps but has not played for her country since 2021. "I hope I leave the game in a better place than when I started," Houghton, who began at Sunderland in 2002, said. "And I have contributed in some small way to giving the girls of tomorrow a better future in football."
Centre-back Houghton spent five years at Sunderland, followed by three-year spells at Leeds and Arsenal, before joining City in 2014.
She made her England debut against Russia in March 2007, going on to appear at two World Cups and two European Championships.
However, Houghton missed out on a place at Euro 2022, having not played for eight months because of an Achilles injury, and was also left out of Sarina Wiegman's squad for last year's World Cup.
Houghton also represented Team GB at London 2012 and Tokyo 2020.
"Taking the decision to retire, is such a difficult thing to do," said Houghton, who was awarded an MBE in 2016 for her achievements in women's football.
"Whilst age comes to every player, it makes it no easier having to say the words out loud. Football has been my life; my passion and I have loved the career I have had."
Houghton has played 241 games for City and is their most decorated player having won 8 major trophies - four Continental Cups, three Women's FA Cups and the FA Women's Super League title in 2016.
She also won 2 WSL titles with Arsenal in 2011 and 2012, also helping the Gunners to 5 cup victories.
"Steph is - without question - an icon of the game," said City head coach Gareth Taylor.
"Although her professional career on the pitch is now coming to an end, her legacy will be felt for so many years to come.
"She's paved the way for so many to thrive in the future."
City captain Houghton signed a new one-year deal in June 2023, taking her into a 10th year at the club during which she will stop her playing career.
"I feel incredibly privileged to have been able to work with her since 2020 and know her name will be written into the history books as a true footballing great," added Taylor.
City are level with leaders Chelsea with five matches left in their WSL season, which is set to conclude on 18 May against Aston Villa.
"I am excited for whatever comes next," said Houghton, who is married to former Liverpool defender Stephen Darby and helped him complete a 178-mile march for ex-players with motor neurone disease this week.
"In the meantime, I remain focused on giving everything I have left for Manchester City, over the next two months."
i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82964281-0-image-a-7_1711562967819.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82964283-13245913-image-a-20_1711563861243.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/19/82967707-13245913-image-a-15_1711567406472.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82965685-13245913-image-a-34_1711564801095.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82965775-13245913-image-m-36_1711565024182.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82861581-13245913-Former_Lioness_captain_Steph_Houghton_poses_for_a_picture_with_h-a-27_1711564579493.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/19/82967755-13245913-image-a-16_1711567550666.jpg i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/18/82861579-13245913-Houghton_right_and_Lioness_star_Chloe_Kelly_left_pose_for_a_self-a-31_1711564720784.jpg
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 20:12:25 GMT
Man Utd: Matt Johnson set to be named new head of women's football..By Emma Sanders, BBC Sport.
i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/16/82961627-13245507-image-a-84_1711558208409.jpg Johnson is highly regarded at United and his appointment is thought to be the fist big step of INEOS' overhaul of women's footballManchester United are set to appoint Matt Johnson as interim head of women's football for six months from the end of the season. He currently works for the club's Foundation as well as overseeing the girls' regional and emerging talent centres (RTCs). Johnson will take over from Polly Bancroft, who leaves her role at United to join Grimsby Town as CEO in May. He will step into the role as interim while majority owners INEOS continue to assess their long-term ambitions for the club. Johnson is expected to start in the role in May and brings with him more than 26 years of experience in the women's game. Meanwhile, it is understood discussions are still taking place regarding the future of manager Marc Skinner, whose contract runs out this summer.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 20:14:16 GMT
Polly Bancroft: Grimsby Town appoint Manchester United's head of women's football as CEO..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/A245/production/_132714514_gettyimages-1256950549.jpg Polly Bancroft joined Manchester United as head of women's football in October 2022Grimsby have appointed Manchester United's head of women's football, Polly Bancroft, as their new CEO. Bancroft, who joined United in October 2022, will join the League Two side at the end of the season. She has previously held positions with the women's teams of Brighton and Nottingham Forest and with Uefa and the Football Association. "We are absolutely thrilled for Polly to be joining us," Grimsby chairman Jason Stockwood told the club website. "There was a tremendous amount of interest in the role and to have someone of Polly's calibre and background join us is a real testament to how the club is regarded. "We look forward to welcoming Polly and her family to the area and for her starting once the WSL season has concluded."
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 20:26:31 GMT
Luis Rubiales: Prosecutors want 2.1/2 year jail sentence for World Cup kiss..By Vicky Wong, BBC News.i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/14/74791491-0-Rubiales_refused_to_resign_despite_outrage_after_he_kissed_Spani-a-12_1711551054663.jpgSpanish prosecutors want the ex-head of the country's football federation to be jailed for two-and-a-half years after he kissed a female footballer following Spain's World Cup victory. Luis Rubiales is facing charges of sexual assault and coercion over a non-consensual kiss on the mouth he gave to Jenni Hermoso last August. Hermoso and her team mates said the kiss was unwanted and demeaning. Rubiales was forced to resign, but has denied any wrongdoing. According to a court document seen by Reuters, prosecutor Marta Durantez charged Rubiales with one count of sexual assault and one of coercion for his alleged actions in the aftermath of the kiss - the offences carry jail terms of one year and one-and-a-half years respectively. Ms Durantez also accused the former coach of the women's national team, Jorge Vilda, the team's current sporting director, Albert Luque, and the federation's head of marketing, Ruben Rivera, of coercing Hermoso into saying the kiss was consensual. i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/14/77171703-0-Hermoso_said_the_kiss_following_Spain_s_World_Cup_triumph_in_Syd-a-15_1711551131803.jpgAll three denied wrongdoing when they appeared before the court. Each could face up to 18 months in jail if convicted. Ms Durantez also wants the four men to pay damages totalling €100,000 (£85,677) to Hermoso, and for Rubiales to pay at least half of this amount. She also requested a restraining order for Rubiales, barring him from coming within 200m of Hermoso and from communicating with her for the next seven-and-a-half years. The scandal overshadowed a historic moment for Spain's women's team, which at the time was celebrating its first ever World Cup win. During the trophy presentation ceremony, Rubiales clasped Hermoso's head between his hands and planted a kiss on her lips. He was also criticised for grabbing his crotch when celebrating the win, standing next to Spain's Queen Letizia and her daughter Princess Infanta Sofia. The incident set off a wave of global anger at sexism at the highest levels of women's sport and led to boycotts of the national team by Spain's players as they called for changes to be made to women's football in the country. Rubiales was initially suspended by world football's governing body Fifa, before he eventually stood down as both head of Spain's football federation and vice-president of Uefa in September. In January, Fifa upheld a three-year ban from footballing activities for Rubiales after he lodged an appeal. Vilda - the coach who led the women's team to their World Cup victory and an ally of Rubiales - was also sacked in September amid the fallout from the scandal, but was appointed head coach for Morocco women's team in October. i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/27/15/82956975-13245153-image-m-31_1711552656785.jpg
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 27, 2024 22:26:47 GMT
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 8:44:09 GMT
Genero Adran Premier Cardiff City beat Swansea to retain title..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/39F1/production/_133033841_2024-03-27cardiffcitywomenvswanseacitywomen_ac_053.jpg Rhianne Oakley (left) celebrates after scoring her second goal for Cardiff against SwanseaCardiff City have retained the Genero Adran Premier following a comprehensive 4-0 win over rivals Swansea City. Eliza Collie set Cardiff on their way with the opening goal on 15 minutes before Rhianne Oakley doubled the lead. Oakley scored her second of the game 12 minutes into the second half before Molly Kehoe lifted the ball over keeper to net a fourth. Victory saw Cardiff stretch their lead over second place Swansea to an unassailable 11 points. They remain on course to complete a domestic treble this season. Cardiff will face Swansea in the Genero Adran Trophy final on 14th April and will play Wrexham in the Bute Energy Welsh Cup final on 5th May.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 8:49:17 GMT
More on the Steph Houghton retirement: An iconic figure who leaves women's game in better place..By Emma Sanders, BBC Sport.
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/169E3/production/_133034629_gettyimages-1812139375.jpg Steph Houghton has played for Sunderland, Leeds, Arsenal and Manchester CityThere is one moment among many highlights during Steph Houghton's extraordinary career that helps paint a picture of her as a person. When England were knocked out by USA in the 2019 Women's World Cup semi-finals - after Houghton's 84th-minute penalty was saved - she clasped the hands of the team-mates pulling her up from the ground at full-time, held back her tears and went to speak to the media. "I've let the team down. I'm gutted and heartbroken. We were so close but I'm proud of everyone because we gave it everything," she said. It was the mark of a true leader - one of England's greatest - that she would publicly shoulder such responsibility. This was one of the lowest moments of a brilliant career which has spanned three decades and yet she reacted with the same humility, professionalism and honesty as when enjoying success. The Lionesses' record goalscorer Ellen White once said she felt "very privileged" to have played alongside Houghton. Coming from the north-east - a hub of female football talent in the 2000s - Houghton would go on to captain her country for eight years and make 121 appearances. She represented Great Britain in two Olympic Games and was one of the first female players to be given a central contract by the Football Association and, for a while, was the face of women's football in England. "There will be girls who have seen Steph play with talent, determination and integrity and gone home and said 'I want to be Steph Houghton'," Baroness Sue Campbell, the FA's director of women's football, said on Wednesday after Houghton announced her retirement at the end of the season. It was Houghton's face which first broke through in pictures dominated by England's male stars, her name which featured regularly on the back pages of newspapers and her achievements that helped drive investment in the women's game. She was the first female player to appear on the cover of Shoot magazine, was awarded an MBE by the Queen and received the Freedom of the City in Sunderland. She also led England during a significant period of growth for women's football, managing increased scrutiny, expectation and media attention, as well as guiding the next generation. "The women's game has changed so much in the period that she has been involved in it - she has been at the forefront of it," former Scotland winger Pat Nevin told BBC Radio 5 Live. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/CDA3/production/_133034625_gettyimages-2075315778.jpgSteph Houghton has won eight major trophies with Manchester CityHoughton said on Wednesday she hoped to "leave the game in a better place than when I started". There is absolutely no doubt that she has done so. When the country celebrated Houghton's goal against Brazil at the 2012 Olympic Games in front of 70,584 at Wembley Stadium, it felt like a turning point for women's football. Since then, she has continued to advocate for professional standards, while improving her game to compete with a new generation of fully professional athletes. Houghton has won eight major trophies with Manchester City since 2014 and could yet add another WSL title this season. City boss Gareth Taylor said Houghton would "sacrifice herself" for the team and even when injured, she travelled to games on crutches and gave team talks on the pitch. England team-mate Alex Greenwood said she "set the standards" in training. Former England defender Gilly Flaherty, a team-mate during Houghton's spell with Arsenal, told BBC Radio 5 Live: ".You knew when you played with her - you went to war with her. "Even when games got tough you used to look at her, with her armband, and think 'we can get through anything when we have got her there'. I think she gave so much to this country and women's football." ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/6363/production/_133034452_gettyimages-2106639852.jpgSteph Houghton's husband Stephen Darby was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2018Houghton has been tested in her personal life too. Her husband, former Liverpool and Bradford City defender Stephen Darby, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2018 and Houghton, while still captaining England and playing for Manchester City, began helping to raise awareness of the illness. Three days before announcing her retirement, Houghton helped complete a 178-mile march from Bradford to Liverpool, raising £130,000. Continuing to raise awareness for The Darby Rimmer MND Foundation will no doubt remain a priority but Houghton will not be short of offers to stay in football. Houghton told BBC Sport in January she hoped to "give back to the game" in her hometown and she has enjoyed doing punditry in recent years for broadcast media. But having already become a mentor to so many of her younger City team-mates, Houghton could have a "phenomenal career" in coaching, White believes. "She's so technically gifted and tactically astute - she could be a coach or a manager when she retires. She has a phenomenal career ahead of her - big places to go," White told City's club website. Chelsea manager Emma Hayes backed that up on Wednesday, adding: "I don't wish coaching on anyone but if she wants to do it, I think she would be a great asset to someone. "I'm sure she has some other really important life challenges ahead. She's someone I really admire and respect for the way she carries herself. I wish her the best of luck in whatever she does." ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/800/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2024/3/28/3c87adba-7f12-490d-822b-acd1924539e3.jpg
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 8:52:25 GMT
Chelsea expect to be in Women's Champions League semi-finals, says boss Emma Hayes..By Emma Sanders, BBC Sport at Stamford Bridge.
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/D4AB/production/_133034445_gettyimages-2110563352.jpg British record signing Mayra Ramirez scored as Chelsea drew 1-1 with Ajax on Wednesday night to progress 4-1 on aggregateEmma Hayes says Chelsea "expect to be" in the semi-finals of the Women's Champions League after securing their spot for a second season running by dispatching Dutch side Ajax. The Blues were held to a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday but won the tie 4-1 on aggregate after a 3-0 victory in Amsterdam. Chelsea were beaten in the semi-finals by champions Barcelona last season. "We expect to be here, I should say that," said Hayes. "If you look at our record in the Champions League, even in the last five years, it was only once we didn't qualify from the group. We've made the latter stages every [other] year. "I don't make any excuses, we should be at this level and we should be at the semi-finals. Of course we have a little bit more depth to be able to do things like make more changes [on Wednesday] than we've ever had. "But we haven't won anything, we're in the place we want to be. I don't know who the opponent will be - but we're ready." Chelsea could set up another meeting with Barcelona in the last four. The Spanish giants have a 2-1 aggregate lead going into the second leg of their quarter-final tie with Brann on Thursday. Hayes, who leaves Chelsea in the summer to manage the United States women's national team, hopes to guide her side to the quadruple this season but will need to rely on every member of the squad after being hit with long-term injuries. As well as chasing a first European crown, Chelsea are top of the Women's Super League, face Arsenal in the Women's League Cup final on Sunday and play Manchester United in the Women's FA Cup semi-finals next month. "We love winning. I always say this to the players. No-one cares who scores. Everyone has a role to play," said Hayes. "We have to count on each other. Some will play more than others throughout the season. I trust the squad, I trust the players. We're in the place we want top be. "There were some that absolutely needed to recover [on Wednesday] so I'm really happy with the whole squad."
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 9:02:46 GMT
Bethany England: I'm not ashamed of who I am any more..By Calum Leslie, BBC Newsbeat.playersbio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bethany-England-With-Her-PFA-Player-of-The-Year-Award-696x866.jpgBethany England With Her PFA Player of The Year Award
Next year, Lioness Bethany England is looking forward to walking down the aisle with her fiancée, Steph Williams. It's not too long ago that a wedding between two women in the UK would have been impossible, but it all changed 10 years ago when same-sex marriage was legalised. Bethany says 2014, when the new law came in, was about the time she realised she was gay. Since then women's football has seen an explosive rise in popularity, and the Tottenham striker is one of many gay female players. The 29-year-old features in a BBC iPlayer documentary - Gay Marriage and Me - looking at how many more role models have spoken up since the law came in, and where marriage equality is at in 2024. Bethany, who grew up in Barnsley, says she "always wanted this big, fancy wedding". But for couples like her and Steph, it's still not possible to get married in most churches. When the law was introduced, religious organisations were automatically left out - and had to "opt in" to marry same-sex couples if they wanted to. It also protects them from legal challenges if they don't. The Church of England, along with many others, still defines marriage as between one man and one woman so its officials aren't allowed to legally marry gay couples unless that definition changes. Those institutions could decide to "opt in" to same-sex weddings under the law. The Church of England would also need that decision to go through parliament. "As much as I'm not a religious person, I know there's plenty of people out there that are in the LGBTQ+ community," says Bethany. "So I think to deny their wishes of what they want and having to wait even longer to find someone who's willing to do it takes away from their special moment and the love they have for each other." playersbio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bethany-England-With-Her-Girlfriend-Stephanie-Williams-696x870.jpgBethany England With Her Girlfriend, Stephanie WilliamsEven though it's not for her, Bethany says it's a "shame there's still so much work to be done" before more LGBT people can get married in ceremonies that reflect their faith. Research by BBC Newsbeat found fewer than 3% of all religious buildings registered to marry people in England and Wales will officiate ceremonies for same-sex couples. Some priests within the Church of England, like Reverend Jide Macaulay, an openly gay priest from Manchester, would like things to change. "I would love to be able to celebrate and offer same-sex marriages," he says. "The Church has evolved from issues around slavery, racism, the subjugation of women. "I am hoping that in five years to 10 years we will see a rollover in the Church of England where we can have those marriages in our church and to be able to say to people, 'God bless you'. That is all it takes." In a statement, the Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow, who leads on these issues for the Church of England, said "LGBTQ+ people are wholeheartedly welcome" in the Church and it had recently approved new prayers of blessing for same-sex couples. "A lot of people want the Church to take the next step and introduce same-sex marriage while others - in good conscience - see this as conflicting with Christian teaching," he said. "The Church is trying to create an inclusive space where all voices are heard and respected. We're committed to engaging in these important discussions because these are matters which profoundly affect people's lives." In Northern Ireland it is a similar situation. Of nearly 2,800 religious officiants, 65 are registered for same-sex weddings. The Church of Scotland and Scottish Episcopal Church are the only bigger churches in the UK that have opted in to the legislation. playersbio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bethany-England-A-Professional-Soccer-Player-Representing-Englands-Womens-National-Soccer-Team-683x1024.png
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 20:12:08 GMT
Leicester Women sack manager Willie Kirk following investigation into his alleged relationship with a female player at the club..by Sam Brookes.ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/13CA/production/_129166050_gettyimages-1476704660.jpgLeicester have sacked their manager Willie Kirk after carrying out an investigation into his alleged relationship with a female player at the club. Kirk was suspended earlier this month while the club investigated the allegation made against the 45-year-old Scot. Kirk has now been dismissed following the investigation, bringing an end to his two-year stay at the club. He joined Leicester in July 2022 as director of football, before replacing Lydia Bedford in the dugout four months later. He leaves Leicester with the team 9th in the Women's Super League (WSL) having collected 16 points from their 17 matches. Jennifer Foster and Stephen Kirby have been placed in temporary charge of the side while the club search for a permanent successor to Kirk.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 20:19:47 GMT
Thursday 27th March 2024 - UEFA Women's Champions League - Quarter-finals - 2nd Leg - Result
Barcelona 3 Brann 1 (agg: 5-2)
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/58BA/production/_133041722_gettyimages-2113290741.jpg Two-time winners Barcelona have reached the Women's Champions League semi-finals in six consecutive seasonsHolders Barcelona beat Brann to set up a Women's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea. Barcelona won the first leg 2-1 and extended their aggregate lead when Aitana Bonmati hooked an effort past Aurora Mikalsen in the 23rd minute. They netted again through Fridolina Rolfo, who bundled home when Mikalsen failed to clear a goalmouth scramble. Tomine Svendheim pulled one back for Brann, but Patri Guijarro scored an 88th-minute tap-in to seal Barca's win. With England internationals Lucy Bronze and Keira Walsh in their line-up, Barcelona dominated the second leg at Estadi Johan Cruyff and prevented the visitors from Norway scoring again as they managed 26 shots to Brann's seven. Beating Brann sets up a repeat of last year's semi-final, when Barcelona beat Chelsea 2-1 on aggregate before going on to win the competition. They will host the 1st leg in Barcelona on 20th-21st April, with the 2nd leg being played at Stamford Bridge on 27th-28th April.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 20:33:30 GMT
Katrina Gorry: West Ham midfielder out for season with ankle injury..
i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/28/03/82979975-13247225-image-a-27_1711596266295.jpg The West Ham midfielder is now racing the clock to be fit for the Paris Games after suffering a serious ankle injury v Chelsea.West Ham United midfielder Katrina Gorry will miss the remainder of the Women's Super League season with an ankle injury. Gorry sustained the injury in the 2-0 defeat by Chelsea last Sunday and left the stadium on crutches. The 31-year-old requires surgery for the issue and her place in Australia's Olympic squad is now in doubt. Gorry, who has 105 caps for her country, says her rehabilitation is her "next challenge". Gorry and Arsenal's Kyra Cooney-Cross have created a formidable partnership in central midfield for the Matildas, whose first match of the Olympic football tournament is against Germany in Marseille on July 25th. Australia are already likely to be without captain Sam Kerr for the tournament after the Chelsea forward ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in January. "Unfortunately my season with @westhamwomen has been cut short," Gorry wrote on Instagram."I've spent the last few days sitting with my emotions and now it's time to face this next challenge and trust in my body to come back stronger and more in love with the game." West Ham are 11th in the WSL and have picked up just 4 points from their past 5 matches. i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/01/06/05/79681193-12932531-Gorry_pictured_with_her_daughter_Harper_joins_the_club_from_Vitt-a-60_1704520119469.jpgGorry (pictured with her daughter Harper) joins the club from Vittsjö GIK in Sweden
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 20:40:16 GMT
Man City: Kerstin Casparij charged over alleged offensive gesture to Man Utd fans..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/14A18/production/_133040548_gettyimages-2108858350.jpg Kerstin Casparij has until 3rd April to respondManchester City defender Kerstin Casparij has been charged by the Football Association with making an alleged offensive gesture during the Manchester derby on 23 March. The Netherlands international's charge relates to an incident in the 37th minute in City's 3-1 win at the Etihad. Jess Park gave City the lead eight minutes before half-time, when Casparij is alleged to have made a gesture towards Manchester United's away support. Casparij has until 3rd April to respond. City's win took them top for 24 hours in the Women's Super League, before Chelsea's victory against West Ham restored the Blues' lead at the top on goal difference.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 28, 2024 23:26:43 GMT
Thursday 27th March 2024 - UEFA Women's Champions League - Quarter-finals - 2nd Leg - Result
Paris Saint-Germain 3 Hacken 0 (agg: 5-1)
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/EADC/production/_133042106_gettyimages-2120742115.jpg Paris St-Germain, who have finished as runners-up twice, are heading to the semi-finals for a seventh time
Paris St-Germain will face French rivals Lyon in the semi-finals of the Women's Champions League after beating Hacken to reach the final four. PSG were dominant in the second leg, opening the scoring when Tabitha Chawinga fired into the bottom corner. United States midfielder Korbin Albert extended their lead when she sent a long-range drive past Jennifer Falk. Marie-Antoinette Katoto then headed home Sakina Karchaoui's cross to seal victory. PSG led 2-1 on aggregate going into the second leg and never looked like letting their lead slide. It took them until the 70th minute to follow up Chawinga's opener, but they troubled Hacken throughout with Katoto having an earlier header cleared off the line. Hacken were unable to make any real impression at Parc des Princes as the Swedish side were forced to sit back without the ball.
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 29, 2024 18:22:18 GMT
Women's League Cup final: Chelsea players 'talk about' historic quadruple, says Ashley Lawrence..By Emma Smith, BBC Sport.
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/114CB/production/_132995807_gettyimages-2089848911.jpg Ashley Lawrence (centre) is aiming to win her first trophy with Chelsea since joining from PSG last summerChelsea's players are talking about doing the unprecedented quadruple this season - but their focus is always on the next game, insists Ashley Lawrence. The Blues have won the Women's Super League in each of the past four seasons and the FA Cup in the previous three - but could go even further this time. They are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League after beating Ajax over two legs in their last-eight meeting, face Manchester United in the last four of the FA Cup, and the current WSL leaders could collect the first trophy of a potential four in the League Cup this weekend. No English women's side has ever won four major trophies in a season, while the last team to win a Treble were Arsenal when they lifted the league, FA Cup and Uefa Women's Cup in 2007 - a year they also won the Community Shield. It is Arsenal who will be aiming to spoil Chelsea's quadruple dreams in the Continental League Cup on Easter Sunday - just as they ruined a potential treble for the Blues by winning the same final 3-1 last season. Chelsea defender Lawrence, 28, says the squad are taking nothing for granted in their quest for the quadruple. "It's always there, we talk about it," she told BBC Sport. "But our focus is on day by day. We work towards the next game, but we are excited to be in this position. "We are aware of the four trophies, Emma [Hayes] and the players who have been here a while know what it takes to win. It's always there, but not the main focus." Chelsea are used to the strain of competing for multiple trophies at once. They played in every match possible to be involved in last season, apart from the Champions League final as they were eliminated at the final-four stage. Hayes' side also reached the FA and League Cup finals and won the WSL. It is new to Lawrence, who joined the club last summer from Paris St-Germain, but the Canadian said the team is ready to cope with a relentless run-in, even if it affects time on the training ground. "We try to take the most important bits and pieces from a game and do better," she added. "If those things are specific and apply to the next game then the staff will focus on those things. "But all season it has been a quick turnaround, playing for four different trophies, and we have just been accustomed to it." ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/F077/production/_132995516_gettyimages-2099147128.jpgChelsea manager Emma Hayes is aiming to win her 16th trophy with the club in the 2024 League Cup finalLawrence, who has 130 caps for Canada, was brought to Chelsea by manager Hayes last season and has played a utility role for the club amid an injury crisis, deployed wide both in defence and midfield. She admitted working with Hayes was an enormous draw for her to come to the WSL - and has been even more impressed at close quarters. "She was a big part of my decision [to sign for Chelsea]," said Lawrence. "Everyone in the football world is aware of Emma, and the impact she has had in England and globally. "It was an exciting opportunity to come to this club, for the players, the environment and for her. "She exudes a lot of confidence, even before signing here I saw she has the ability to transform a team into a winning mentality. Now I am here I see she has that ultimate belief, that unwavering confidence. We need that going into finals." Chelsea go into the first of those finals at Molineux as favourites after an impressive 3-1 win over Arsenal in the WSL at Stamford Bridge - a result that all but ruled the Gunners out of the title race. Arsenal, however, have a good recent record against Chelsea, beating them 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium in the WSL this season, as well as the 2023 League Cup final. "Anything can happen, especially in the final," warned Lawrence, who won gold with Canada at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. "We looked at that last game with confidence, but they are a top team and will come out for the next game different. "It's going to be a level playing field, so we go in with the same conviction, as that was really good from the first whistle. We will not change much but we will be ready."
|
|
bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 12,307
|
Post by bluetornados on Mar 29, 2024 18:28:04 GMT
Women's League Cup final - at Molineux - Live on BBC 2 - 3pm KO
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/8A1A/production/_133045353_-492c0521-fd8c-4305-a529-e9e34bb91576-1.png
Arsenal v Chelsea - League Cup finalArsenal Manager Jonas Eidevall on how important the fans will be: "They are very important for creating the atmosphere and the belief in the stadium. Our fans have been so great this season in doing so. Our motivation is to win for them, our fans, for all the hours that they put down travelling, supporting our team. It's for them we need to play. It's for them we need to win. What they're doing for us, with this club, is so special. We want to do everything to reward and repay them for the faith that they're putting into us."
|
|