A winless start to the Women's Super League season has seen the Merseyside club stuck to the foot of the standings, devoid of a victory or a shutout to their name. The recent loss at Aston Villa added to the misery, including a concerning lack of attempts on goal. Whilst attention often focuses on the male team, the women's side faces a increasing threat of slipping down the sporting hierarchy.
Growing Frustration on Coach Gareth Taylor
In spite of facing a vital game against fellow struggling the Hammers, sections of the fanbase are losing faith. Online platforms lit up with calls for change after the most recent setback, despite it being only ten WSL games into the manager's tenure. This stands in stark difference to the team's position with former management, highlighting a clear regression in fortunes.
"There is little question that we have gone backwards as a team certainly, beyond what is acceptable of a club like Liverpool," admitted the manager after the Aston Villa defeat. "We have go and show a reaction."
Team Issues and Transfer Questions
The off-season sale of star player Olivia Smith for a groundbreaking sum raised hopes of investment. However, fans might rightly wondering where that investment has gone. Recent acquisitions have largely failed to impress, with the notable bright spark being Swedish forward Beata Olsson. Olsson's four strikes represent a significant portion of the side's meager total output, leaving them the least productive attack in the league.
- No Attack: The team has taken the fewest attempts in the league and generates precious little clear-cut chances.
- Injuries and Inexperience: Important players have been absent through knocks, and the squad boasts one of the lowest mean ages in the competition.
- Philosophy Change: Coach Taylor was hired to implement a new playing style, a transition he acknowledges "takes time overnight."
Extenuating Circumstances and a Pivotal Window
Some context exists for the struggles. Taylor's late arrival in pre-season limited his preparation time. The club has also been processing the tragic grief after the death of former coach Matt Beard, with a number of matches rescheduled as a consequence. Additionally, a grueling run of road games has not helped.
Nevertheless, in the results-driven world of football, patience typically wears thin. The upcoming winter transfer period appears as a potential turning point. Yet the pressing question remains: will the manager be at the helm to conduct it?
{A much-needed win against West Ham on Sunday would undoubtedly alleviate the building tension and provide a crucial boost. With the drop regulations briefly altered for this season, the management could believe they have greater leeway to stick with their long-term plan. However, for many supporters, only results will do.
