Marie Höbinger is determined to end Liverpool’s losing streak in WSL derbies against Everton. Everton Women have won all five previous encounters at Anfield. With a new manager and fresh signings, Liverpool aims to turn the tide and secure a crucial victory in the season opener. Both teams have strengthened their squads, promising an intense and competitive Merseyside derby.
As the new Women's Super League (WSL) season approaches, the rivalry between Liverpool and Everton intensifies. Liverpool midfielder Marie Höbinger is determined to reverse her team's fortunes in the Merseyside derby. Everton Women have dominated recent encounters at Anfield, winning all five WSL meetings without conceding a single goal. This record weighs heavily on Höbinger, who is eager to turn the tide in the upcoming season opener.
“It’s due, isn’t it? It’s about time,” Höbinger stated, expressing her determination to end Liverpool’s losing streak against their local rivals. “Everton are a tough team to play against. I feel like they step up their game every time they play against us. It’s about time we make them lose at Anfield. We’re all super motivated for that.”
Everton's manager, Brian Sorensen, jokingly referenced his team's success at Anfield, quipping about making it their training pitch. While the comment was lighthearted, the underlying message was clear: Everton has a psychological edge when playing at Liverpool's home ground. The upcoming match marks Gareth Taylor's debut as Liverpool's manager, adding another layer of intrigue to the derby. Sorensen acknowledged the significance of past results but emphasized that they hold little weight in the present. “It always gives you confidence, but it’s water under the bridge. It’s history,” he noted.
Despite Everton's historical success at Anfield, Liverpool is keen to assert their dominance. The team has been actively strengthening its squad during the transfer window, aiming to create a more competitive lineup. The arrival of new players, coupled with Taylor’s tactical expertise, could provide the spark Liverpool needs to overcome their derby woes.
The significance of playing the season opener at Anfield is not lost on Höbinger. She sees it as a testament to the growing popularity and importance of women's football in England. “It’s just amazing to play in the big stadiums, especially to see how big women’s football is in England,” she said. “Being a part of that is really special. Feeling that is special for me, coming from Austria, where it’s not like that.”
Liverpool's recent activity in the transfer market underscores their ambition to climb the WSL standings. Starting the season with a high-stakes derby at Anfield presents an ideal opportunity to set the tone for a successful campaign. The team is eager to capitalize on the home advantage and deliver a memorable performance for their fans. “It couldn’t have been any better for us, playing Everton here at Anfield. It gives us the best possible chance to start the season really well, and it’s going to give us a massive push and motivation to do well for the fans,” Höbinger added.
Last season, Liverpool finished seventh in the WSL, narrowly ahead of Everton, who were eighth. This year, both teams have undergone significant changes, with new signings and a new manager at Liverpool. The derby will be a crucial test of their progress and a chance to stake an early claim in the league standings. Taylor's past record against Everton while managing Manchester City adds an interesting dynamic to the match. A victory in his first game would be a significant boost for both the team and the fans.
Everton, under Sorensen, has also been busy in the transfer market, securing key players to bolster their squad. The arrival of England midfielder Ruby Mace and Japanese internationals Yuka Momiki, Hikaru Kitagawa, and Rion Ishikawa demonstrates the club’s commitment to competing at the highest level. Sorensen expressed his satisfaction with the new additions, noting the selection headaches they create due to the increased quality in the team.
As the derby approaches, both teams are preparing for a fierce battle. The historical context, combined with the fresh talent and tactical changes, promises an enthralling encounter. Marie Höbinger's determination to break Liverpool's derby curse encapsulates the spirit of a team eager to rewrite history and begin the season on a high note. The stage is set for an unforgettable clash at Anfield, where both Liverpool and Everton will vie for supremacy in the Merseyside derby.