The fixtures for the upcoming FA Women’s Super League (FA WSL) season have been announced, with the season kicking off on 16 April.
The 2013 champions, Liverpool, will begin their title defence when they take on League newcomers Manchester City, in the first televised game of the new season.
BT Sport, the WSL’s broadcast partner, will show the opening week’s standout fixture live on Thursday 17 April on BT Sport 1, on air from 7.30pm.
FA WSL 1 opening games
Birmingham City v Everton (Weds 16 Apr)
Notts County v Arsenal (Weds 16 Apr)
Bristol Academy v Chelsea (Thurs 17 Apr)
Liverpool v Manchester City (Thurs 17 Apr)
For the first time there will also be a second division, FA WSL 2, with an additional 10 teams competing in the League. All 18 WSL clubs will also take part in The FA WSL Continental Cup, which begins on 30 April.
Other opening-week highlights include a new-look Chelsea’s trip to last year’s runners-up Bristol Academy. The Blues have signed six new players so far, while the Vixen’s new manager, Dave Edmondson, will be looking for his team to get off to a winning start.
Liverpool boss Matt Beard said: "Hopefully we can hit the ground running, but with Manchester City coming into the league it will be a good test for us right from the off.
FA WSL 2 opening games
Oxford United v London Bees (Mon 14 Apr)
Aston Villa v Doncaster Rovers Belles (Weds 16 Apr)
Reading v Yeovil Town (Weds 16 Apr)
Watford v Millwall Lionesses (Weds 16 Apr)
Durham v Sunderland (Thurs 17 Apr)
"Having BT Sport on board is fantastic for women’s football. I like what they have been doing across all sports and it’s great to be a part of that.
"I think this will be the most competitive WSL season to date so I think the viewers will see a lot of exciting games.
"I’m just hoping we can kick things off on a positive note."
Fans will also be able to enjoy highlights on BT Sport’s WSL Review Show, along with simulcast coverage of live televised matches throughout the season for subscribers on BTSport.com and the BT Sport app.
BT Sport is one of the founding partners of a new commercial programme for women’s football 2014-2018, alongside Vauxhall, Nike and Continental Tyres.
