Bristol City Women

[Dan Robin]

Congratulations, Vixens!

[JBFC II]

Fun afternoon out, can see a clear togetherness in the team which will be pivotal next year.

Thought they played some very nice stuff in the second half especially, huge step up next season but they should enjoy today first!

[Midlands Robin]

Fantastic result and a brilliant boost for the club as a whole. 

There's no better time to get back into the WSL with the world cup in the summer bound to ramp the popularity of the women's game up another notch. 

It's safe to say the squad will need further investment now to give ourselves a stronger chance of competing. 

Exciting times. 

[Sleepy1968]

See the highlights for a class save from Fran Bentley, and a great fourth goal. Fair play to the Charlton players and staff for staying to watch the presentation.

I'll just include one photo as they're quite large.

[The Swan and Cemetery]

Great stuff, even in a small league, only one to go up is always tricky. Not so sure about the gap either, as think we’re stronger these days and the middle to lower end of the Super League isn’t a drastically different standard, from what I’ve seen. If we want to be beating Man U/Chelsea etc week in, week out, clearly that’s a different level, but not too much more needed to be able to consolidate in my view.  

Key investment over the summer is going to need to be the pitch, as we’ve now got 3 teams in the highest league (despite their great season, suspect the Flyers will prefer to continue playing indoors) plus City men. That’s bound to mean more games where a higher capacity needed than available at the HPC. Really hope we don’t send the women off to (eg) Yeovil or similar to get more capacity, the Gate is the place to be. Or maybe SL will buy out Manor Farm and develop The Creek into the  second stadium Bristol deserves…

[miser]

A nervy afternoon as Birmingham had kept the pressure on. Would have fidgeted a lot, except I was wedged in my seat (were people really that small in 1970). The second goal eased the pressure on the team although it may have returned big time if not for Bentleys fine save. In the end can't fault finishing  5-0 and 4-0 to clinch the title.

[The Original OTIB]

9 minutes ago, Sleepy1968 said:

See the highlights for a class save from Fran Bentley, and a great fourth goal. Fair play to the Charlton players and staff for staying to watch the presentation.

I'll just include one photo as they're quite large.

They all look quite athletic to me.

[Lanterne Rouge]

Congratulations all round, a fine job done well. A shout out to the fans like @shahanshahantoo who have followed the team all over the country, you must all be very proud.

Where to play next season is a dilemma though. Crowds should be well up and a lot of  WSL games seem to be on TV too so the facilities for that need to be there. We don`t want to miss out on TV revenue because they aren`t.

Can AG cope with three teams using the pitch? I know it`s being relaid and I expect the technology has moved on from when it was put down first so hopefully it can.

[Sarumred]

According to the BBC all their matches next season will be played at Ashton Gate. What sort of attendances can the club expect?

[The Nest Egg]

If AG isnt an option for every game (and I hope it is), it would be good to see them at Manor Farm.

Just glad they dont play up at Stoke Gifford any more, was never a good location or venue for them 

[Jerseybean]

Congratulations! 

[The Nest Egg]

Today was fantastic to be part of and honestly one of my favourite experiences at Ashton Gate. Arguably the biggest moment for City WFC thus far. Great to see so many families and young girls attend; the momentum from our Euros win undoubtedly a catalyst.

Even if you're a sceptic of the women's game, I strongly recommend giving it a go; much more positive and wholesome than what the men's game often provides too!

[Lanterne Rouge]

2 minutes ago, An Outstanding Human said:

Today was fantastic to be part of and honestly one of my favourite experiences at Ashton Gate. Arguably the biggest moment for City WFC thus far. Great to see so many families and young girls attend; the momentum from our Euros win undoubtedly a catalyst.

Even if you're a sceptic of the women's game, I strongly recommend giving it a go; much more positive and wholesome than what the men's game often provides too!

And you`d hope that a lot of those families and youngsters will be wanting STs for next season. 

[redkev]

1 hour ago, Sleepy1968 said:

See the highlights for a class save from Fran Bentley, and a great fourth goal. Fair play to the Charlton players and staff for staying to watch the presentation.

I'll just include one photo as they're quite large.

What ! The ladies are quite large or the pics

[redkev]

31 minutes ago, An Outstanding Human said:

Today was fantastic to be part of and honestly one of my favourite experiences at Ashton Gate. Arguably the biggest moment for City WFC thus far. Great to see so many families and young girls attend; the momentum from our Euros win undoubtedly a catalyst.

Even if you're a sceptic of the women's game, I strongly recommend giving it a go; much more positive and wholesome than what the men's game often provides too!

Lots of hungry blokes at home waiting for there wives & daughters to get home

[marmite]

Well done girls. Tremendous season and promotion well deserved. Enjoy the experience next season. You have enough to press on and establish yourselves. Go girls.

[elhombrecito]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/65366482

 

[RedLionLad]

56 minutes ago, redkev said:

What ! The ladies are quite large or the pics

Are you ok?

[RedLionLad]

1 hour ago, Sarumred said:

According to the BBC all their matches next season will be played at Ashton Gate. What sort of attendances can the club expect?

If that’s correct then more than the 15ers every game

[Lanterne Rouge]

? City Women Season Tickets set for sale | Bristol City (bcfc.co.uk)

[Danwal]

Good to see nakhi wells and max O’Leary in E28 to support the ladies and in with the fans. 
 

really good day out and would definitely go again next season 

[Erithacus]

Congratulations to the girls! A season to be proud of and worthy champions. It's been a few years since the men won the League 1 title and the South Stand was only half built then. Good time for another party.

I thought the side put out by Lauren Smith had a few surprises but they all played well. If there was a touch of nerves or distractions with a crowd of over 7,000 (let's say that again - 7,000) the girls didn't show it. No jitters or fluffs, there was a composed and determined edge today. Charlton are no mugs but they hardly had a look-in, thanks to some solid centre-back play and a driving midfield. Any opportunities in and around the City box was normally dealt with by blocks; Fran Bentley really only had to deal with one decent effort on target which she stopped magnificently.

Getting the ball forwards, we had far the better movement. Ella Powell was bombing on in the first half to good effect and making it difficult for Charlton to press. Rachel Furness was having a big influence in the middle of the park, seizing on opponents' runs and turning into attack. She may not have been here long but it's clear she has added to the club greatly.

Grace Clinton pounced on a defensive slip and after that there really wasn't a threat of a response. Scoring almost immediately after the restart left Charlton without a valid way back and it was largely one-way traffic.

I have to say that Abi Harrison was outstanding today - not that she isn't in other games. She showed what she is all about with her positional nous, her skills with or without the ball and her leadership. When the first goal went in she insisted on getting the team into a huddle before the ball was back on the centre spot and giving them the benefit of some well-earned international experience. It must be impossible to define her value to the club: she is an on-field coach, a top goal-scorer, a passionate leader and (I dare say) something of a club icon. It's often said you need characters at a good club, and Abi is certainly in that class.

Ffi Morgan's entry in the second half was topped with a great strike, However, she suffered a nasty-looking injury near the finish and there was concern. Fortunately, she was up and walking about in the after-match party so it doesn't seem that worrying.

It must be said that there were two winning teams out there today - one in red, the other in black. Lauren Smith and her staff have reaped their just rewards after a season of improvement and encouragement. I'm not sure who they all are but you have to commend them all. Perhaps Mr Lansdown will be rightly pleased that the system works well and will be looking to carry on at all levels. Surely, there can be no doubt about the coach of the season award.

So the season has proved successful, in front of a record breaking crowd at the Gate. I recall how Liverpool's fans celebrated their title last year on our manor and today will be particularly pleasing for all Robins. But the season has not finished yet! Put the Prosecco down and make sure we end it in the way we want to at Brum - in a way we mean to carry on.

Naturally, with the end of the season approaching there will be a time set aside to take stock and begin planning for the next. Who will be moving on (or back to their parent club)? Who will be looking at contracts? And who are the new players coming up from the academy? Are there any players being scouted with the hope of adding to the squad? Interesting times ahead.

But for now it's partytime - a well deserved moment to enjoy and celebrate. Mindful of just how things can change in the blink of an eye (ask Leah Williamson) you must take these moments and get the most out of them. After all, with the WSL a reality, the hard work starts now!

Two years out of the top flight have been corrected. But take a second to soak it in: Bristol City Women - Barclays Womens Champions 2022-23! A credit to the club and the city. Well done everyone!

[redkev]

27 minutes ago, RedLionLad said:

Are you ok?

Why’s that 

 

[RedLionLad]

1 minute ago, redkev said:

Why’s that 

 

You’re coming across as a bit of a dinosaur with your attitude towards women and girls.

[miser]

3 minutes ago, RedLionLad said:

You’re coming across as a bit of a dinosaur with your attitude towards women and girls.

He's spotted an opening as the new Robbored.

[Bristol Oil Services]

29 minutes ago, Danwal said:

Good to see nakhi wells and max O’Leary in E28 to support the ladies and in with the fans. 
 

 

Yeah, and both left early, so proper Dolmen the pair of them. 

[redkev]

12 minutes ago, RedLionLad said:

You’re coming across as a bit of a dinosaur with your attitude towards women and girls.

Oh god sake get a life , i made 2 comments with no malice ( just tongue in cheek comments ) and now I’m a dinosaur .

 

[redkev]

2 minutes ago, Bristol Oil Services said:

Yeah, and both left early, so proper Dolmen the pair of them. 

Both over the park practicing , Nakhi trying to score Max trying to save  might be a long session 

[Hamdon Mart]

24 minutes ago, Erithacus said:

Congratulations to the girls! A season to be proud of and worthy champions. It's been a few years since the men won the League 1 title and the South Stand was only half built then. Good time for another party.

I thought the side put out by Lauren Smith had a few surprises but they all played well. If there was a touch of nerves or distractions with a crowd of over 7,000 (let's say that again - 7,000) the girls didn't show it. No jitters or fluffs, there was a composed and determined edge today. Charlton are no mugs but they hardly had a look-in, thanks to some solid centre-back play and a driving midfield. Any opportunities in and around the City box was normally dealt with by blocks; Fran Bentley really only had to deal with one decent effort on target which she stopped magnificently.

Getting the ball forwards, we had far the better movement. Ella Powell was bombing on in the first half to good effect and making it difficult for Charlton to press. Rachel Furness was having a big influence in the middle of the park, seizing on opponents' runs and turning into attack. She may not have been here long but it's clear she has added to the club greatly.

Grace Clinton pounced on a defensive slip and after that there really wasn't a threat of a response. Scoring almost immediately after the restart left Charlton without a valid way back and it was largely one-way traffic.

I have to say that Abi Harrison was outstanding today - not that she isn't in other games. She showed what she is all about with her positional nous, her skills with or without the ball and her leadership. When the first goal went in she insisted on getting the team into a huddle before the ball was back on the centre spot and giving them the benefit of some well-earned international experience. It must be impossible to define her value to the club: she is an on-field coach, a top goal-scorer, a passionate leader and (I dare say) something of a club icon. It's often said you need characters at a good club, and Abi is certainly in that class.

Ffi Morgan's entry in the second half was topped with a great strike, However, she suffered a nasty-looking injury near the finish and there was concern. Fortunately, she was up and walking about in the after-match party so it doesn't seem that worrying.

It must be said that there were two winning teams out there today - one in red, the other in black. Lauren Smith and her staff have reaped their just rewards after a season of improvement and encouragement. I'm not sure who they all are but you have to commend them all. Perhaps Mr Lansdown will be rightly pleased that the system works well and will be looking to carry on at all levels. Surely, there can be no doubt about the coach of the season award.

So the season has proved successful, in front of a record breaking crowd at the Gate. I recall how Liverpool's fans celebrated their title last year on our manor and today will be particularly pleasing for all Robins. But the season has not finished yet! Put the Prosecco down and make sure we end it in the way we want to at Brum - in a way we mean to carry on.

Naturally, with the end of the season approaching there will be a time set aside to take stock and begin planning for the next. Who will be moving on (or back to their parent club)? Who will be looking at contracts? And who are the new players coming up from the academy? Are there any players being scouted with the hope of adding to the squad? Interesting times ahead.

But for now it's partytime - a well deserved moment to enjoy and celebrate. Mindful of just how things can change in the blink of an eye (ask Leah Williamson) you must take these moments and get the most out of them. After all, with the WSL a reality, the hard work starts now!

Two years out of the top flight have been corrected. But take a second to soak it in: Bristol City Women - Barclays Womens Champions 2022-23! A credit to the club and the city. Well done everyone!

I can't add very much to this, Erithacus, because I agree with every single word you've written. Have enjyed watching the Womens matches these past 2-3 years and looking forward to covering them again next season.

As others have said quite correctly, City need to compete next season with the teams that aren't in the big four. If they beat those around them then pinch a few points off the rest, they'll be fine next season. 

As for Lauren, hopefully she'll win "Coach Of The Year" because she has brought in the right players at the right time and married the right formations with the right tactis pretty much flawlessly. And it was noticeable today that even those not in the matchday squad were included in the celebrations, that's always good to see. I'd add a word of praise for Anita Asante who must have been a huge help to Lauren this season with her experience and winning mentality.

Wow, Bristol City Women's FC - FA Women's Champions for 2022/23. Sounds great, doesn't it?

Just now, Hamdon Mart said:

I can't add very much to this, Erithacus, because I agree with every single word you've written. Have enjyed watching the Womens matches these past 2-3 years and looking forward to covering them again next season.

As others have said quite correctly, City need to compete next season with the teams that aren't in the big four. If they beat those around them then pinch a few points off the rest, they'll be fine next season. 

As for Lauren, hopefully she'll win "Coach Of The Year" because she has brought in the right players at the right time and married the right formations with the right tactis pretty much flawlessly. And it was noticeable today that even those not in the matchday squad were included in the celebrations, that's always good to see. I'd add a word of praise for Anita Asante who must have been a huge help to Lauren this season with her experience and winning mentality.

Wow, Bristol City Women's FC - FA Women's Championship winners for 2022/23. Sounds great, doesn't it?

 

[Rob k]

2 hours ago, An Outstanding Human said:

Today was fantastic to be part of and honestly one of my favourite experiences at Ashton Gate. Arguably the biggest moment for City WFC thus far. Great to see so many families and young girls attend; the momentum from our Euros win undoubtedly a catalyst.

Even if you're a sceptic of the women's game, I strongly recommend giving it a go; much more positive and wholesome than what the men's game often provides too!

Why have you had to have a dig at the men’s game to make a point? 

[redkev]

23 minutes ago, miser said:

He's spotted an opening as the new Robbored.

[RedLionLad]

12 minutes ago, redkev said:

Oh god sake get a life , i made 2 comments with no malice ( just tongue in cheek comments ) and now I’m a dinosaur .

 

Most of us have moved on from making comments of that nature. It’s just not funny anymore.

[RedLionLad]

29 minutes ago, miser said:

He's spotted an opening as the new Robbored.

He’ll just laugh at that

[redkev]

Just now, RedLionLad said:

Most of us have moved on from making comments of that nature. It’s just not funny anymore.

I will done my cap to you and your perfect life who gets offended for the offended and keep my tongue to myself .

im just waiting to be called racist & homophobic . 
I shall keep my views to football only from now on 

[The Nest Egg]

12 minutes ago, Rob k said:

Why have you had to have a dig at the men’s game to make a point? 

You make a reasonable point; I'm not sure. It had been an observation that there was less 'gamesmanship' on the pitch and a significantly less combative and volatile dynamic in attendees. Of course, the pantomime of men's football is a big draw for going and watching it live. It was just nice to see a change whilst still being in the familiar environment of Ashton Gate.

I do feel that my point did not revolve around 'having a dig' but was rather more focused on the positive aspects of today; of which there were many!

[RedLionLad]

5 minutes ago, redkev said:

I will done my cap to you and your perfect life who gets offended for the offended and keep my tongue to myself .

im just waiting to be called racist & homophobic . 
I shall keep my views to football only from now on 

You seem to have some issues with how to conduct yourself.

I’ll say no more

[redkev]

4 minutes ago, RedLionLad said:

You seem to have some issues with how to conduct yourself.

I’ll say no more

2 comments which you disagree with ( which is your right / choice to do so ) and I can’t conduct myself .

What ever , how the hell do you react to what goes on around at the gate on match day , swearing , abuse of the officials , people drunk , fans fighting , must be a nightmare for you 

[Jerseybean]

https://youtu.be/i7KiLSz_GiA

 

[Roadrunner]

Well done girls. Need to step up next season.

 

[Baba Yaga]

Good news for the club that they made it back into the top flight. Hopefully the Man City hidings in the cups gave them valuable experience that will pay off next season on the pitch. Should be big crowds to look forward to especially if England have a good world cup.

[Davefevs]

2 hours ago, Lanterne Rouge said:

? City Women Season Tickets set for sale | Bristol City (bcfc.co.uk)

AG - “Primary home” guessing some games will be elsewhere

[miser]

23 minutes ago, Davefevs said:

AG - “Primary home” guessing some games will be elsewhere

I thinks this means the Conti Cup fixtures where they could face championship teams could be at the RHPC and maybe some FA Cup based on opposition. RHPC doesn't meet WSL criteria, so will not be used for league games.

[RedLionLad]

13 minutes ago, miser said:

I thinks this means the Conti Cup fixtures where they could face championship teams could be at the RHPC and maybe some FA Cup based on opposition. RHPC doesn't meet WSL criteria, so will not be used for league games.

…..and they couldn’t use the Mem as it’s not big enough

[phantom]

Just got home, celebrations still going on 

Great to meet the squad in the bar after the game to celebrate 

Lauren and her team can be really proud 

Obviously I don't want my picture on OTIB, but those that know me can see the pictures of the after party celebrations on my Facebook page 

One of the few I wasn't in

[RedLionLad]

16 minutes ago, phantom said:

Just got home, celebrations still going on 

Great to meet the squad in the bar after the game to celebrate 

Lauren and her team can be really proud 

Obviously I don't want my picture on OTIB, but those that know me can see the pictures of the after party celebrations on my Facebook page 

One of the few I wasn't in

I wish I’d gone now. 

[RedLionLad]

2 hours ago, redkev said:

I will done my cap to you and your perfect life who gets offended for the offended and keep my tongue to myself .

im just waiting to be called racist & homophobic . 
I shall keep my views to football only from now on 

You’re making yourself look stupid now

[Cidre Monita]

An outstanding achievement by Lauren and the team. They have really rocked it this season and deserve their collective success—the start of something extraordinary. 

[luke_bristol]

Brilliant day yesterday, the club did a great job to encourage fans to come back and watch them in the WSL next season, loved the trophy ceremony. My daughter was a mascot and absolutely loved every minute of it. 

[Nongazeuse]

My first City Women's match yesterday - congratulations to the team.  

The experience itself was not that pleasant though - why squeeze nearly everyone into the Dolman rather than spread around the South Stand.  So many kids there it was difficult to get out at half time and queues for toilets and catering meant missing first 5 minutes  of the second half.

 

[Parkwaymom]

Does anyone know whether the season ticket is league games only or inclusive of conti cup group games?

[elhombrecito]

5 minutes ago, Parkwaymom said:

Does anyone know whether the season ticket is league games only or inclusive of conti cup group games?

[Jerseybean]

Highlights: https://youtu.be/Ny9_dGc1xx4

[RedEd73]

Premier League football finally comes to Ashton Gate! 

 

[SinéadB]

 

[phantom]

1 hour ago, SinéadB said:

 

Seeing how much the players were enjoying themselves after the game, I'm surprised Abi looks and sounds this good the following day

[freezer]

£80 for an adult season ticket. 

That's great value and hopefully will encourage people to get one and support the ladies. 

[Parkwaymom]

4 hours ago, freezer said:

£80 for an adult season ticket. 

That's great value and hopefully will encourage people to get one and support the ladies. 

Or £68 if you already have a men’s season ticket. 

[phantom]

[shahanshahan]

On 23/04/2023 at 18:23, Lanterne Rouge said:

Congratulations all round, a fine job done well. A shout out to the fans like @shahanshahantoo who have followed the team all over the country, you must all be very proud.

Where to play next season is a dilemma though. Crowds should be well up and a lot of  WSL games seem to be on TV too so the facilities for that need to be there. We don`t want to miss out on TV revenue because they aren`t.

Can AG cope with three teams using the pitch? I know it`s being relaid and I expect the technology has moved on from when it was put down first so hopefully it can.

Thank you for the shoutout!

Really sorry I haven't been on OTIB for the last few days.
Sunday was rather lively. Stayed inside the stadium for over an hour after FT to watch the presentation, chat to friends, and then try speak to some of the players in-between them celebrating signing stuff & taking photos with the younger fans.

Myself & a few others including @phantom went for some drinks in the Sports Bar at about 6pm (with a DJ playing from the supporters bar). Don't think I saw many fans; mostly players' families. Then groups of the players & staff in red Champions 23 shirts came into the bar - before the trophy finally came in! Shania Hayles had it with her & handed it to me straightaway.
The players & staff celebrated before going up stairs to the mezzanine for a private party which apparently continued on for hours...

 

[Erithacus]

6 hours ago, phantom said:

Seems like the FA are looking to open up the lower levels, but presumably the strict criteria for WSL is being kept in place.

[shahanshahan]

After Pearson's match preview in the week where he said that the women would be celebrated on Saturday, I was expecting that it would have happened during half time today.
However, it was surprising & also uplifting to see them not get a guard of honour from the men's team - but also their own lap of honour too!

Did notice that Elysia Boddy was mysteriously missing...

(photos from club media)

[shahanshahan]

Today's away game at Birmingham is live on the FA Player, by the way
 

 

[Erithacus]

I know it's not strictly that important now we are champions, but I want to see the girls put in a proper shift today. Start like we mean to go on, finish like we mean to go on! Besides, Brum did us on our turf so let's settle that today.

COYR!

[shahanshahan]

Jazz Bull & Chloe Mustaki start.
Ella Powell & Jodie Hutton are out of the squad altogether...

 

[old_eastender]

twice in opening 5 mins Vicki Bruce gives it away in dangerous positions, showing why she is one that needs to be replaced if the girls are to compete in the WSL.

[old_eastender]

Shot from inside the box nutmegs Bruce, Bentley, probably mis-sighted gets a hand to it but can't keep it out 1-0.

[old_eastender]

HT 2-0. Birmingham been the better side, Lucy Quinn had looked a level above anyone else, scored the first and made the second. She is the sort of quality player we could do with poaching!

We have had a couple of promising situations, but don’t think their keeper has had a shot to save yet.

[Sleepy1968]

No cutting edge today (I've only seen the second half.) Glad this isn’t the title decider, but if it was, we'd maybe a bit sharper in front of goal.

[old_eastender]

FT 2-0. Our girls were the better side in 2^nd half, without managing to create any clear-cut chances.

Perhaps a “good” result in a way, as shows we really need 3 or 4 quality signings to improve that side to have any chance of staying in the WSL.

[RedRock]

1 hour ago, old_eastender said:

FT 2-0. Our girls were the better side in 2^nd half, without managing to create any clear-cut chances.

Perhaps a “good” result in a way, as shows we really need 3 or 4 quality signings to improve that side to have any chance of staying in the WSL.

I think that’ll be 5 to 6 to be frank and that will be just to survive.

A lot of hard work on physicality and fitness required on the squad over the Summer. The next league up is for elite athletes, as well as quality footballers. Think we’re some way off tbh.