Everton’s Star-Making Debut
Ornella Vignola stole the spotlight with a sensational debut for Everton at Anfield:
Despite Liverpool taking an early lead through Cornelia Kapocs in the 12th minute, Vignola responded in style—curling in an equaliser in the 24th.
Team captain Katja Snoeijs then headed home just before halftime to put Everton ahead.
In the second half, Vignola delivered two quickfire goals—one a header, the other a deflected strike—to complete her hat-trick by the 56th minute and seal a commanding 4–1 win.
Remarkably, Vignola became the first Everton player to net a derby hat-trick since Dixie Dean in 1931.
Everton’s dominance was clear: despite Liverpool dominating early (xG of 1.17), Everton only needed 0.86 xG to put four on the board.
Their unbeaten Anfield record now stands at six consecutive victories.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, under new manager Gareth Taylor, struggled to recover. They created few chances in the second half, and defensive lapses plus limited depth added to the pressure.
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Opening Weekend Roundup
Chelsea, the reigning champions, kicked off their title defence with a 2–1 win over Manchester City.
Arsenal also impressed with a 4–1 victory against newly promoted London City Lionesses.
Manchester United started strongly, dispatching Leicester City 4–0 thanks to goals from Ella Toone, Elisabeth Terland, and a brace from Melvine Malard.
Tottenham Hotspur, under new manager Martin Ho, edged West Ham 1–0, courtesy of a late Bethany England penalty. It’s a promising start for Spurs after a tough previous season.
Brighton & Hove Albion and Aston Villa played out a 0–0 draw, the only match of the weekend without goals.
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Final Thoughts
Everton’s emphatic win, made even more memorable by Vignola’s debut hat-trick, sets the tone for a season full of intrigue. With strong opening performances from several top sides—including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal—the race for early dominance is heating up.
