London City Lionesses announced themselves on the Women’s Super League stage with a statement victory over Everton, their first top-flight win since promotion. The triumph at Goodison Park was more than just three points; it was proof that the newcomers can do more than merely survive in the WSL.
The Lionesses had endured a bruising start to life in the top tier, conceding nine goals across opening fixtures against Arsenal and Manchester United. But those games were never going to define their season. Against Everton, a more evenly matched opponent, the team showed resilience, composure, and flashes of real attacking quality.
Leading the charge was 22-year-old striker Isobel Goodwin, whose brace sealed the 2-0 victory. Goodwin, last season’s top scorer in the Championship, demonstrated exactly why she is one of the most exciting young forwards in English football. She offered her side a focal point in attack, holding the ball up intelligently, spinning defenders with ease, and stretching Everton’s backline with clever movement. Her pace, surprising for a player of her stature, caused problems all evening, while her composure in front of goal was clinical.
Goodwin’s rapid development is beginning to draw attention beyond her club, with whispers that she could soon feature on Sarina Wiegman’s radar for the England national team. Performances like this will only strengthen her case.
For head coach Jocelyn Prêcheur, the win was about more than Goodwin’s goals. After a summer that saw the club bring in 17 new signings, cohesion and defensive organisation remain a work in progress. Yet this performance showed significant progress, with improved structure and game management, particularly in the closing stages when Everton applied pressure.
The Lionesses are backed by the considerable resources of owner Michele Kang, one of the wealthiest investors in women’s football. That spending power has drawn criticism from some quarters, with detractors claiming the club are attempting to buy success. Others, however, welcome the ambition and view them as a refreshing challenge to the traditional dominance of clubs affiliated with men’s Premier League giants.
Whatever the perception, London City Lionesses are now proving themselves on the pitch. Their attractive, possession-driven style promises to win admirers, and if Goodwin continues her upward trajectory, the club could cause more surprises in the WSL this season.
