Top 5 Performers this Weekend from MW19

Across a weekend shaped by key derbies and competitive fixtures in the Barclays Women’s Super League and BWSL2, individual quality once again proved decisive. From clinical finishing in the final third to disciplined defensive displays and creative influence in midfield, several players delivered performances that had a direct impact on results.

Here are five players whose contributions stood out.

Hat-Trick Hero – Alessia Russo (Arsenal)

Alessia Russo once again demonstrated her clinical edge in front of goal, delivering a standout performance as a central striker in a North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. Leading the line, Russo’s movement and positioning allowed her to consistently find space in dangerous areas.

Her hat-trick showcased a complete number nine performance, combining intelligent runs with sharp finishing inside the box. Russo’s ability to occupy defenders and capitalise on key moments proved decisive in a high-intensity fixture.

Performances like this underline her importance as a focal point in attack, with her composure and efficiency making her a constant goal threat.

The Two-Way Threat – Kerstin Casparij (Manchester City)

Kerstin Casparij delivered an outstanding performance from right-back in the Manchester derby against Manchester United, impacting the game at both ends of the pitch. Operating from a wide defensive position, she provided both defensive stability and attacking width.

Her goal and assist, alongside creating two big chances, highlight her effectiveness going forward, particularly with overlapping runs and deliveries into the final third. Defensively, her contribution to a clean sheet demonstrates her awareness and ability to manage one-on-one situations.

Casparij’s display reflects the demands of the modern full-back role, combining defensive discipline with attacking intent to influence all phases of play.

The Final Third Maestro – Lauren James (Chelsea)

Lauren James showcased her quality operating from the wing in Chelsea’s encounter with Aston Villa, playing a key role in a scintillating first half that produced six goals. From wide areas, she consistently looked to take on defenders and create opportunities.

Her goal and assist underline her direct attacking impact, while her 89% pass accuracy reflects her composure in possession even in advanced positions. Creating six chances further highlights her ability to deliver quality into the box and link play effectively.

James’ combination of creativity, control, and directness from the wing makes her a constant threat, capable of both creating and finishing chances in high-tempo attacking games.

The Midfield Enforcer – Mary Bashford (Southampton)

Mary Bashford delivered a commanding all-round performance in midfield during Southampton’s clash with Ipswich, combining physicality, defensive awareness, and attacking contribution. Her ability to influence the game in multiple phases made her a key presence throughout the match.

She not only found the back of the net but also contributed significantly out of possession, registering three tackles, four clearances, including four headed clearances, along with a block and two recoveries. Her willingness to engage in duels and break up play provided Southampton with a strong defensive foundation in midfield.

Bashford’s performance reflects a true box-to-box profile, contributing at both ends of the pitch and playing a vital role in maintaining balance and intensity throughout the game.

The Distributor - Asato Miyagawa (Birmingham City)

Asato Miyagawa delivered a composed and effective defensive performance in Birmingham City’s match against Bristol City, combining defensive awareness with the ability to contribute in possession. Operating from the back, she played a key role in both disrupting opposition attacks and initiating play.

Her assist and two big chances created highlight her quality on the ball, showing her capability to influence attacking phases from deeper areas. Defensively, she remained reliable, registering four tackles and six interceptions to consistently regain possession and break up play.

Miyagawa’s performance underlines the qualities of a modern defender, comfortable in possession, proactive out of it, and capable of impacting both defensive and attacking phases of the game.