Liverpool Women manager Gareth Taylor has set a competitive target for his squad ahead of the new Women's Super League season. Speaking ahead of their opening fixture, Taylor expressed strong belief in his team's ability to challenge every opponent they face, as reported by sports.yahoo.com.
Taylor's confidence stems from the team's significant improvement during the second half of the 2025-26 campaign. After a difficult start that saw them tipped as heavy relegation favourites, key January signings helped transform their fortunes. They ultimately secured their top-flight status, finishing 11th in the final FA WSL table with 17 points from 22 games, recording four wins, five draws, and thirteen losses. Their goal difference of -13, with 21 scored and 34 conceded, highlighted the areas needing improvement, and they ended the season 38 points behind champions Manchester City W.
What are Liverpool Women's opening fixtures?
The new season begins with a trip to face newly promoted Charlton Athletic this Sunday. This presents an immediate test against a side fresh from winning promotion. The following week, on Sunday the 13th, Liverpool Women host Tottenham Hotspur, a team that finished fifth last season, 19 points behind Manchester City. A challenging early schedule is then capped with a match against the reigning champions, Manchester City, on September 18th. Fans can track the full schedule on our fixtures page.
Taylor is clear about his expectations. "I expect us to be really competitive against every team that we play against," the manager stated. This mindset will be vital as they look to build on the momentum from last season's recovery. The team's final stretch of form last term was LLLWD, a mixed bag they will aim to improve upon from the outset.
How did pre-season preparations go?
Liverpool Women played a pre-season friendly against Durham in front of supporters, providing valuable match practice. The transfer window also saw the club linked with potential reinforcements before its closure, though no final business was completed. This means the squad that finished last season will largely be the one tasked with meeting Taylor's ambitious target. The current player roster is available on our squad page.
What is the target for the 2026-27 season?
The primary objective is to establish a more consistent presence in the league and avoid another relegation battle. "Looking ahead to this season, I really believe this team can kick on," Taylor said, summing up the mood at the club. Building on the platform of last season's second-half form is the clear goal. The team's defensive record, having conceded 34 goals last season, will be a key area of focus if they are to climb the standings.
With the new campaign about to start, the focus is firmly on the opening match at Charlton Athletic. Taylor's public backing sets a clear standard for his players as they aim to prove their competitiveness from the first whistle.
