Liverpool Women finished their preseason campaign with a resounding 7-1 victory over Durham Women on Sunday at St. Helen's Stadium. Beata Olsson opened the scoring in the 13th minute and completed her hat-trick within the opening 20 minutes, setting the tone for a dominant performance.
Olsson’s early strike was followed by a goal from Marie Höbinger just before halftime, assisted by Alice Bergstrom. The Swedish duo linked up effectively throughout the first half, with Höbinger’s movement creating space for Olsson to thrive.
Ceri Holland extended the lead around the hour mark after detailed play between Höbinger and Olsson. Sara Agrez then scored the sixth goal from a rebound off Jenna Clark’s header that struck the crossbar. Vic Jones came off the bench to seal the win with 15 minutes remaining, finishing a move set up by Vivienne Endemann. Durham managed a consolation goal through Rachel Lowe late on, but the result was never in doubt.
New signings Sara Agrez, Natalia Ramos, and Khiara Keating started the match, with Agrez making an immediate impact through her goal and movement. Faye Kirby replaced Keating at halftime, while Lola Kay came on for Sam Kerr, referred to in the squad as 'the Scottish Sam Kerr'. Kirsty Mclean was replaced by Vic Jones, who marked her bench appearance with a goal. Mari Ward also featured as a new signing, replacing Alejandra Bernabe.
Gareth Taylor said: "Things appear to be cooking over on the Women's arm of the club." An unattributed observer noted: "I do hate to note that Durham are a WSL 2 side, and we last faced them when we were in the second division."
Liverpool Women enter the new WSL season having finished 11th in the FA WSL last season with 17 points from 22 games (4W-5D-13L), a goal difference of -13, and 38 points behind leaders Manchester City W. Their season opener is on September 6th against Charlton Athletic at 2pm BST, live on Sky Sports.
