Crystal Palace were promoted to replace Bristol City in the top flight, while on a wider note, the league is now under the management and operation of a new organisation set up to lead women's football towards further growth and progression, with Nikki Doucet overseeing both the WSL and Championship in a new phase for the game.

United came out with a different look than usual, with Simi Awujo and Geyse getting starts. Surprisingly the Canadian midfielder was the furthest forward of the three in the center of the park, with Grace Clinton operating as a sort of free 8 and Dominique Janssen again anchoring.