The Top 5 Performers of the Weekend in the BWSL and BWSL2
From decisive cameos to commanding displays across 90 minutes, this weekend’s action in the BWSL and BWSL2 was defined by individuals who shifted momentum and set the tone for their sides. Whether through clinical finishing, defensive authority or relentless work off the ball, these performances left a clear imprint on their respective fixtures.
Here are five players who stood out when it mattered most.
The Instant Impact — Cathinka Tandberg (Tottenham Hotspur)
Cathinka Tandberg delivered the kind of contribution every manager hopes for from the bench, altering the direction of the contest within minutes of her introduction against Aston Villa. Entering the game at a pivotal stage, she required just two shots on target to score twice, turning a balanced encounter into one that firmly swung in Spurs’ favour.
Her movement inside the penalty area was sharp and decisive, finding space between defenders and reacting quickest when opportunities presented themselves. There was little hesitation in her finishing, both efforts taken with conviction, underlining a forward operating with clarity and confidence.
In matches where momentum can shift rapidly, Tandberg’s efficiency proved decisive. If Spurs are searching for a catalyst again this weekend, they now know they possess one capable of making an immediate and clinical difference.
The Difference Maker — Lauren James (Chelsea)
Lauren James once again proved decisive as Chelsea secured a 2–0 victory over Liverpool, influencing the game at both ends of the pitch. Contributing a goal and an assist, she provided the moments of quality that separated the sides, combining composure in the final third with an ability to unlock defensive structures.
Operating between lines and drifting into pockets of space, James dictated attacking sequences with precision, completing 91% of her passes and ensuring Chelsea maintained control during key phases. Her impact was not limited to possession alone; three tackles and three recoveries underlined a willingness to contribute defensively and press with intent.
In fixtures where margins are narrow, players capable of delivering in decisive moments often define the outcome. Against Liverpool, James was exactly that, the catalyst who turned control into tangible reward.
The All-Arounder — Hannah Blundell (Everton)
Hannah Blundell delivered a performance defined by balance and authority as Everton secured a clean sheet in their victory over West Ham. Providing the assist for the game’s decisive goal, she ensured her influence extended beyond defensive duties, offering the quality needed to unlock a tight contest.
Composed in possession, Blundell completed 90% of her passes, helping Everton progress play with control and maintain structure throughout key phases of the match. Her decision-making in wide areas allowed her side to manage tempo while still posing an attacking threat.
Defensively, she was equally assured, registering nine recoveries and playing a central role in preserving the shutout. Against West Ham, Blundell’s ability to impact both ends of the pitch underlined why she remains such a valuable asset in Everton’s system.
The Consistent Threat — Lucy Fitzgerald (Charlton)
Lucy Fitzgerald’s run of form shows little sign of slowing. After scoring a brace in her previous outing, she once again found the net against Durham, reinforcing her growing influence in Charlton’s attacking structure.
Her movement in advanced areas continues to pose problems for defensive lines, arriving in dangerous spaces with timing and conviction. This latest goal was another example of a forward operating with confidence, building momentum at a crucial stage of the season.
Fitzgerald’s contribution was not limited to the final third. Recording five recoveries, she demonstrated a willingness to contribute defensively and help Charlton regain control when required. In a league often decided by narrow margins, her sustained output is becoming increasingly decisive.
The Spark & Steel — Ashleigh Weerden (Crystal Palace)
Ashleigh Weerden followed up last weekend’s goal with another decisive display, this time providing two assists as Crystal Palace secured a 3–1 victory over Birmingham City. With four goals and seven assists to her name this season, her influence in the final third continues to grow at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Operating intelligently in wide areas, Weerden consistently found space to deliver quality into dangerous zones. Her two assists reflected sharp awareness and technical precision, ensuring Palace turned control into clear advantage.
Defensively, she matched that attacking spark with steel, recording five tackles and disrupting Birmingham’s attempts to build sustained momentum. After scoring in her previous outing, this latest performance underlined her all-round impact, a player contributing consistently across multiple phases of the game.
