What a ride it's been. It feels like only yesterday that the teams stepped out for the first game of the season, and now we're gearing up for the last WSL matches until September.
While everyone you know is debating who is going to take the title, we're taking some time to appreciate the teams that have had some outstanding performances this season. There might not be any medals for taking part, but we think they deserve some love. And after all, they could be the ones to watch when September rolls around.
Liverpool
Let's start with the clear stars of the WSL this season. Liverpool were firing warning shots when they beat Arsenal at the Emirates in the opening game of the season, and they've finished in similar style. It's not just their show-stopping performances against the likes of Chelsea that have got them to fourth place in the table - they've been consistent, too. Despite having the lowest total goals in the top five, they've managed to win 11 games and draw five, meaning that they have only lost one more game than Arsenal. Considering they were only promoted to the WSL two years ago, that's pretty impressive.
Manager Matt Beard has to be credited with much of this success. He's built a solid squad, with the likes of Fisk in defence, Höbinger in the midfield and Román Haug upfront.
Matt Beard has been shortlisted for the @BarclaysWSL Manager of the Season award 🙌🔴
But it's the infrastructure around the players that has also played a key role. Their move at the start of the season to the Melwood Training Centre was an indication of real investment in the team - and one that has clearly paid off. With the women's team now having access to world-class pitches, nutrition facilities and high-quality recovery equipment, it looks like this is just the start for Liverpool.
However, with four players announced to be leaving at the end of the season, Matt Beard and the Liverpool management will be hoping to attract some top new talent to the team.
Tottenham Hotspur
Despite a less-than-ideal scoreline in the FA Cup Final, Spurs's WSL season has been highly commendable. Against the backdrop of a 9th place finish in the 2022-23 season, securing 6th place in the table and a place in the FA Cup final for the first time has been hugely successful for Robert Villahamn's Spurs side.
A huge reason for their success is the talent they've brought in - most notably Grace Clinton. The poster girl for many a Fantasy WSL team this year spent the season on loan from Manchester United, and has undoubtedly come into her own at Spurs. In fact, she impressed so much that she received her first senior England call up this year, and is widely regarded to be a superstar in the making. There are already reports that United are desperate to get her back, but Spurs are not letting her go without a fight.
Up front, the duo of Martha Thomas and captain Bethany England have also made a huge difference to Tottenham's fortunes this year. Between them, they've got 11 goals and 2 assists, and it is England's leadership that led Spurs to victory in a third of their games this season. If they can keep their top players, there's no reason why Spurs couldn't be pushing for the top four this time next year.
Our skipper talks about some of her favourite moments this season 🫡 The NLD win ⚪️ Becky Spencer's FA Cup heroics 🧤 Leading the team out at Wembley 🏟️
West Ham
You might not expect the 11th place team to feature in an article about improvers, but West Ham deserve an honourary mention. Despite failing to rack up points on the league table, the Irons have been building their foundations this year, both with their players and their fanbase.
January's transfer window saw the likes of Mini Gorry and Kristie Mewis join the Hammers, bringing international stardom to Dagenham (not least in the form of Harper Gorry). Unfortunately, both Gorry and Mewis suffered injuries shortly after arriving, meaning we didn't get to see their impact play out throughout the rest of the season.
The signs are all there, though. The attacking threat of Asseyi coupled with Kirsty Smith's defensive ability and Mackenzie Arnold between the sticks means that this team can put up a fight. Indeed, West Ham have attracted the most international talent in the WSL, so once they find their groove, we know they can put on a world-class show. All we'll say is - watch this space.
Image: Getty