Top 5 Performers from the BWSL2 in MW20
From decisive goals to commanding defensive displays, this weekend’s action in the BWSL2 was defined by players who made a tangible impact when it mattered most. Whether through creative playmaking, clinical finishing, or tireless work across the pitch, these individuals were pivotal to their teams’ performances.
Here are five players whose influence stood out across the weekend’s fixtures.
The Midfield Maestro- Michaela McAlonie (Southampton)
Michaela McAlonie delivered a complete midfield masterclass, combining creativity, vision, and relentless work rate in a 5-2 win against Sheffield United. She scored a crucial goal, making that her 4th in the BWSL2 and created three chances, consistently linking play and driving Southampton’s attack forward.
With 75% accuracy on long balls, she showed composure in possession, while her six recoveries demonstrated her commitment defensively. McAlonie’s ability to influence the game at both ends of the pitch made her the heartbeat of her team, dictating tempo and keeping her side in control throughout the match.
The Safe Hands- Shae Yanez (Crystal Palace)
Shae Yanez was a commanding presence in goal for Crystal Palace, anchoring the defence and ensuring a 6th clean sheet in a 1-0 win against Ipswich Town.
She made four key saves, demonstrating sharp reflexes and confidence under pressure, while her three precise throws helped transition the team quickly into attack. Beyond shot-stopping, Yanez contributed seven recoveries, showing her ability to read the game and intervene decisively outside the box. Her composed and authoritative performance provided her team with the stability they needed, proving once again why she is such a vital figure at the back.
The Aerial Authority- Neve Herron (Birmingham City)
Neve Herron put in a dominant defensive display for Birmingham City, combining composure on the ball with relentless defensive work as they own 1-0 against Sunderland late on. She completed 74% of her passes, ensuring the team could build from the back, while her 11 defensive contributions, including eight clearances, seven of which were headed, highlighted her aerial strength and timing, earning Birmingham their 6th clean sheet in the league this season.
Alongside eight recoveries, Herron consistently neutralised opposition threats, organised her backline, and provided a sense of security that allowed her teammates to play with confidence. Her leadership and reliability make her a cornerstone of Birmingham’s defence.
The Pivot- Emily Syme ( Bristol City)
Emily Syme was instrumental in Bristol City’s midfield, influencing both attack and defence with equal authority. She provided both of her team’s assists in the 2–2 draw to Durham, making that 7 assists to her name in the BWSL2, and created six chances, two of them big opportunities, showcasing her vision, awareness, and ability to unlock defences from deep.
Syme also contributed four tackles, three clearances, and eight recoveries, making her a constant presence in breaking up opposition attacks. By controlling play from her deeper midfield role, she ensured Bristol City remained balanced, connected, and competitive throughout the match.
The Heart of the Team- Jordan Nobbs (Newcastle)
Jordan Nobbs was at the core of Newcastle United’s midfield, combining attacking threat with defensive diligence. She scored a 91st minute equaliser in the 1–1 draw with Forest, putting her up to 6 goals in the league this season, created two additional chances, and completed 84% of her passes, demonstrating her composure and precision in distributing the ball.
Defensively, Nobbs contributed five recoveries and two blocks, highlighting her work rate and understanding of positioning. Her influence spanned the full pitch, driving transitions, supporting teammates, and consistently making decisive interventions, earning her the label The Heart of the Team for good reason.
Word credit: Tia Thorne
