Matt Beard
Liverpool FC Women’s manager Matt Beard has always been one to wear his heart on his sleeve when discussing his team’s performance, and his latest column is no different. Following an exhilarating 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur, Beard provides a thorough reflection on the game and what lies ahead for his squad in their highly anticipated clash against Manchester City at Anfield in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
Matt Beard’s column offers insight into Liverpool FC Women’s growing character, the brilliance of certain key players like Cornelia Kapocs and Marie Höbinger, and the excitement surrounding their next match at the iconic Anfield stadium.
The Spurs Thriller: A Test of Character
Reflecting on the recent encounter with Tottenham Hotspur, Matt Beard highlights the thrilling nature of the match. The five-goal spectacle brought memories flooding back for Matt Beard, reminding him of the dramatic 4-3 victory against Chelsea at the end of last season. Liverpool’s trip to North London showcased their resilience and fighting spirit, something Beard was particularly pleased with.
“I’ve looked at their goals and defensively we didn’t get in good positions, so unfortunately it’s just one of those things. But we showed great character, and I was really pleased with the three points,” Matt Beard commented. His reflection on the game captures the complexity of the match: a mixture of defensive lapses and moments of brilliance that ultimately saw his side come out on top.
Although Liverpool took the lead, they could have wrapped up the game earlier. Matt Beard admitted that they should have capitalized on their chances, but the team’s character stood out, and they fought back with determination. “To be honest, we should have been out of sight again because we had so many good chances to finish them off but didn’t take them. The character, however, was immense,” he added.
This statement underlines Matt Beard’s pride in his players, not just for winning the match but for showcasing the mental toughness that is critical in the long run of the season. The game demonstrated that while the team has room for improvement in finishing their chances, they have the grit and mentality needed to secure results.
Cornelia Kapocs: A Rising Star
One of the standout moments in the Tottenham match was Cornelia Kapocs’ first goal for the club. The Hungarian midfielder opened her account for Liverpool with a stunning goal that left Beard, and fans alike, in awe. “Kappy [Cornelia Kapocs] scored her first goal for the club and what an effort it was – what a way to open her account!” Matt Beard said, clearly delighted with the midfielder’s performance.
Kapocs joined Liverpool later than most of her teammates, which meant she had to quickly adjust and catch up with the team’s dynamics. However, her goal against Spurs is a testament to her quality and adaptability. Matt Beard praised her for taking her chance when it came, adding, “She came in late and has had to play catch-up, but she took her chance and did well for us.”
Kapocs’ rise is indicative of Matt Beard’s coaching philosophy: nurturing talent while giving players the opportunity to shine when the moment presents itself. Her contribution on the day was a prime example of the depth that Liverpool possesses in their squad, and her development will undoubtedly be one to watch as the season progresses.
Liverpool FC Women
Marie Höbinger’s Magic
Another key figure in Liverpool’s victory was Marie Höbinger, whose composure in the 95th minute penalty proved crucial in securing all three points for the Reds. Matt Beard’s admiration for Höbinger’s performance is clear. “Marie Höbinger was back at her best and what composure she showed in the 95th minute when taking that penalty – the placing of it was fantastic,” he explained. The Austrian midfielder’s ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it matters most is an invaluable asset to the team.
In addition to her penalty, Höbinger showcased her set-piece prowess with a beautifully struck free-kick that found the back of the net. Matt Beard described the goal as a “great finish” and shared his thoughts from the touchline, “When we saw their wall from the bench, we fancied it to go in. That’s what Marie is capable of with her left and right foot.” Höbinger’s technical ability and versatility add another dimension to Liverpool’s attack, and her performances will be pivotal as the season unfolds.
Sophie Roman Haug’s Impact
Sophie Roman Haug also earned praise from Matt Beard for her leadership in attack. The forward’s presence was felt throughout the match, and she was involved in one of the game’s most controversial moments: a penalty decision that went in Liverpool’s favor after Ashleigh Neville fouled her in the box.
“Sophie Roman Haug led the line superbly well for us and that was 100 per cent a penalty,” Beard stated confidently. Haug’s commitment and work rate were evident throughout the game, and she played a key role in the team’s attacking output. Matt Beard also referenced an earlier missed penalty opportunity against West Ham involving Fuka Nagano, expressing relief that this time, Liverpool got the decision in their favor.
Sofie Lundgaard’s Injury Blow
Unfortunately, the victory was marred by an injury to Sofie Lundgaard, who will now undergo surgery for a knee issue. Matt Beard expressed the impact this had on the team, particularly at half-time when the players were visibly upset. However, the tactical switch to a 3-4-3 formation worked wonders, allowing Liverpool to adapt and continue pushing forward in the second half.
While Lundgaard’s absence will be felt, Beard’s tactical flexibility and the squad’s collective strength will be key in navigating this setback. The ability to adjust formations and maintain the team’s momentum is a reflection of Matt Beard’s experience as a coach.
Anfield Showdown with Manchester City
After the hard-fought win against Spurs, Liverpool now set their sights on Manchester City, a team that has consistently been one of the strongest in the Women’s Super League. The excitement surrounding the game is amplified by the fact that it will take place at Anfield, one of the most iconic stadiums in football.
Matt Beard acknowledges the challenge that lies ahead but remains confident in his team’s ability to compete. “It will obviously be a tough game against Manchester City. Gareth [Taylor] has assembled a really good squad there over a few windows and we know how tough it will be. But we are looking forward to it,” Matt Beard commented.
Liverpool’s track record against the top teams in the league gives them belief going into the match. Wins against Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal last season have shown that the Reds can compete with anyone on their day. Beard emphasized the importance of belief, saying, “We know we can beat anyone on our day – we have proved that if you look at the wins over Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal last season.”
However, Matt Beard also highlighted Liverpool’s recent struggles at Anfield, recalling the controversial disallowed goal from Missy Bo Kearns in a derby match. He stressed that sometimes teams need a bit of luck to get over the line in big games, and Liverpool will be hoping that fortune favors them this time around.
Building on Momentum
As Liverpool FC Women prepare for their Anfield clash with Manchester City, Matt Beard’s words reflect a manager who is proud of his team’s resilience and eager to build on their recent success. The Tottenham win showcased the team’s character, while key players like Kapocs and Höbinger continue to impress.
Sunday’s match at Anfield promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Liverpool looking to make a statement against one of the league’s top sides. With the belief in their abilities and the support of their passionate fan base, Liverpool will be aiming to secure another memorable victory.
YNWA, indeed.
🔴Find the Latest News on Player Ratings | Transfers | Prematch | Postmatch
Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com