Women’s football round-up: Crystal Palace set for WSL debut – with three deadline day arrivals bolstering Laura Kaminski’s squad

Crystal Palace Women make their Super League debut on Sunday when they head to Brisbane Road to take on Tottenham Hotspur.

The Eagles are competing in the top flight since it became the Super League in 2010 after winning the Championship last season.

Laura Kaminski’s side beat ADO Den Haag 4-0 in their final pre-season before the new campaign – which will see them take on Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United – kicks off.

Palace completed three deadline day signings to bolster their squad ahead of trying to avoid relegation back to the Championship.

American winger Katie Stengel from Gotham FC on a two-year deal.

The 32-year-old has had spells with Bayern Munich, Washington Spirit and Utah Royals during her career.

Stengel won the U20 World Cup with the U.S. national team in 2012 and the Bundesliga title in the 2014-15 season with Bayern Munich.

“It’s been a whirlwind,” Stengel said.

“I’m very excited to be here.

“I loved the WSL when I was playing in England, I’m just happy to be back and to get an opportunity.”

Head of women’s football Grace Williams added: “We’re really excited to have Katie join us at Crystal Palace.

“She’s got great experience and knows how to find the back of the net, so we can’t wait to see what she brings to the team this season.”

Palace have also signed 18-year-old Manchester City forward Poppy Pritchard on a season-long loan.

Pritchard joined City last January after impressing at Durham in the Championship and has netted 13 times for England’s U19 side.

And Wales defender Lily Woodham, 24, joined on loan from National Women’s Soccer League club Seattle Reign until the end of January.

The Eagles made 14 signings in the summer ahead of their very first WSL season.

Spurs finished sixth last season and have been in the WSL since 2019.

Charlton Athletic women continued their perfect start to the Championship campaign with a 1-0 win at Bramall Lane over Sheffield United.

Ellie Brazil netted in the 58th minute to secure all three points for the Addicks.

The 25-year-old striker has netted three times in the first two outings of the season.

Addicks boss Karen Hills told WSL Full-Time. “She’s a fantastic character to have and I’m super-excited that she’s with us.

“You see her intensity running with and without the ball, she just works tirelessly.

“I couldn’t be more happy for her. She’s had a tough couple of seasons but it’s her time to shine and we are going to give her the platform to do that.

“She’s a great kid and a fantastic signing for us. If she can keep scoring goals like that, we will be in a fantastic place.”