Programme notesMatt Beard on debutants, Arsenal challenge and message to fans

The Reds host the Gunners at St Helens Stadium in the Barclays Women’s Super League, which will be their last match of the calendar year.

They head into the contest on the back of a 4-0 home victory over Everton in the Women’s League Cup, and Beard has urged his team to believe in their capabilities in their attempt to follow that up today.

“We got a good win against Everton here in the League Cup on Wednesday. I think first and foremost it was important to get that first victory here because that’s done and out of the way now,” the manager writes in his matchday programme notes.

“Everton made it difficult for us and it took us a little while to find the spaces but once we did I thought we exploited those spaces really well. We probably should have scored more from open play but once we managed to find the spaces in the wide areas to get the crosses in, we looked dangerous, which was pleasing.

“We were also able to give debuts to teenagers Eva Spencer and Neve McDonald. Eva has been training with us for a while and she deserved her debut, as did Neve. Because we have been low on numbers, Neve came in and trained with us and didn’t look out of place at all. I was devastated for her that she had a goal ruled out. What an introduction that would have been!

“I was pleased for both girls and it just goes to show that we’ve got a lot of young talent coming through from the academy.”

Beard continues: “Our final game of the year sees us take on an in-form Arsenal team.

“Interim head coach Renee Slegers has done a fantastic job. It can be hard taking over in the circumstances she did, especially when you’re used to working with someone and had the dynamic she did with Jonas Eidevall.

“She’s done a great job and I think it would be great for the game if she carries on what she’s doing – just not today! – and could get the job on a permanent basis.

“We always know it will be tough whenever we play Arsenal. If you look at last season, we got a great result at the Emirates but lost the home game 2-0. We know it will be a testing afternoon but we’ve proven over time that we can beat these top sides.

“We just have to make sure that we believe in ourselves and give ourselves the best possible opportunity of sending our fans home happy at Christmas.

“On behalf of myself, the staff and all the players I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support this year and we wish you and your families a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.”