The Top Performers of Matchweek 15

Across the BWSL and BWSL2, this weekend’s fixtures were shaped by players who influenced games in different ways — through control, physical dominance, composure in decisive moments, and efficiency when it mattered most.

Here are five standout performances from across the leagues.

The Midfield Maestro — Mariona Caldentey (Arsenal)

Mariona Caldentey once again demonstrated why she remains central to Arsenal’s control in highlevel fixtures. Operating between the lines, she dictated tempo with intelligence rather than urgency, allowing Arsenal to sustain pressure and progress play with clarity, setting up Olivia Smith with the match winner with a perfect through ball to see Arsenal win 1-0 against league leaders, Manchester City.

Her ability to combine positional awareness with technical security ensured Arsenal remained composed during key phases of the contest, particularly when momentum threatened to shift. Completing the most passes in the match (64), Caldentey’s influence was felt less through moments of explosion and more through the consistency of her decision-making. Her partnership with Kim Little was central to Arsenal’s attacking rhythm, providing balance, control, and clarity throughout the performance.

The Breakthrough Moment — Aurélie Csillag (Liverpool)

Aurélie Csillag’s first goal for Liverpool marked a significant milestone, securing a huge 4-1 win to Aston Villa, but it was the manner of her contribution that stood out most. Introduced with intent, she showed confidence in attacking spaces and a willingness to take responsibility in the final third with 5/7 successful passes when she was introduced to the game with 20 minutes to play.

Her breakthrough moment was the product of sharp movement and composure, reflecting a player growing into the demands of the league. For Liverpool, it represented not just a goal, but a

glimpse of a forward capable of influencing games with conviction.

The Controller — Sjoeke Nüsken (Chelsea)

Sjoeke Nüsken delivered a commanding midfield performance, winning more duels than any other player on the pitch and setting the physical tone for Chelsea’s control of the game that saw the Blues win 2-0 away to Tottenham Hotspur.

Her ability to dominate 1v1 battles and regain possession provided Chelsea with a stable platform, allowing attacking players greater freedom in advanced areas, setting up a couple of good chances for Chelsea. In a fixture where intensity defined long stretches, Nüsken’s authority in central zones proved vital to maintaining structure and balance.

The Difference-Maker — Sophie Whitehouse (Charlton Athletic)

Sophie Whitehouse played a decisive role in Charlton Athletic’s huge 2-0 win away to Nottingham Forest to stay top of the league by five points. Whitehouse produced five saves from six shots on target to preserve control during key moments of the contest and earn a clean sheet.

Her shot-stopping was matched by calm decision-making and strong positioning, allowing Charlton to manage pressure effectively when tested. In a fixture where fine margins defined the outcome, Whitehouse’s ability to intervene at critical points ensured Charlton remained secure and ultimately left the pitch with maximum reward.

The Decisive Double — Jordan Nobbs (Newcastle United)

Jordan Nobbs delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice to secure a vital win for Newcastle United as they beat Southampton 2-1 away from home. Her brace was a reminder of her efficiency in decisive moments and her understanding of space inside the penalty area scoring with two out of her three shots on target, the only player to have shots on target for Newcastle.

Beyond the goals, Nobbs’ movement and experience allowed Newcastle to maintain pressure and control attacking phases, making 4 recoveries and winning 4 out of 6 ground duels. When opportunities arose, she was clinical — a performance defined by timing, composure, and leadership.