Tottenham Hotspur’s Women’s team kicked off their Women’s Super League (WSL) campaign with an emphatic victory against Crystal Palace, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid teamwork. The match, which ended with a 4-0 scoreline, saw new signing Mary Raso making a significant impact as she opened the scoring and set the tone for an impressive performance.
A Bright Start for Spurs
From the very first whistle, Tottenham appeared determined to make a statement. Hayley Raso, the Australian forward who joined from Real Madrid during the summer transfer window, quickly found her rhythm and became a central figure in Spurs’ attack. Her goal in the first half was not just an opener; it was a testament to her skill and experience.
Raso’s strike came after she collected the ball midway through the Palace half, skillfully navigating through three defenders before placing a precise shot into the far corner of the net. This goal not only demonstrated her technical ability but also ignited the Spurs players, pushing them to seize control of the game.
Palace WSL Debut
Crystal Palace, struggled to keep pace with Spurs’ intensity and creativity. Although they had moments of promising play, the Eagles failed to convert their chances into goals. As the first half unfolded, it became increasingly evident that they were up against a well-organized and confident Tottenham side.
The pressure mounted for Palace, and the lack of experience at this level began to show. The team had to regroup after conceding, and while they attempted to find their footing, they were unable to threaten Spurs effectively.
Second-Half Surge
The second half saw Spurs continue their dominance. Jess Naz, Drew Spence, and Olga Ahtinen each contributed to the scoreline, showcasing the depth and versatility of Robert Vilahamn’s squad. Each goal highlighted the team’s ability to create opportunities and maintain composure in the final third.
Jessica Naz, known for her agility and quick decision-making, added to the tally early in the second half. Her goal further demoralized the Palace defense, and with each passing minute, Tottenham grew in confidence. Drew Spence, an experienced midfielder, followed suit, slotting home another well-crafted goal that underlined Spurs’ attacking strength.
Olga Ahtinen capped off the rout with a late goal, leaving no doubt about Tottenham’s superiority on the day. The scoring spree not only reflected the team’s attacking capabilities but also the effective management and tactical awareness of Vilahamn, who has instilled a sense of belief and ambition in his squad.
A Disappointing Conclusion for Palace
Crystal Palace faced an additional setback when substitute Brooke Aspin received a red card for two bookings in quick succession during stoppage time. This unfortunate dismissal meant Palace ended their inaugural WSL match with just ten players, further compounding their challenges on an already difficult afternoon.
While the red card may not have impacted the final outcome, it underscored the need for Palace to adapt quickly to the demands of the WSL. The frustration of the players and coaching staff was palpable, as they realized the need to regroup and learn from this experience as they move forward in the league.
Also Read:
