Inside track on Everton | Previewing our WSL season finale

Everton host our final game of the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign as we make the trip to Walton Hall Park on Saturday (12.30pm UK).

Following a difficult first half of the campaign, the Toffees have seen an upturn in form in recent months which has seen them lift to eighth in the table on 23 points.

Ahead of our clash on Merseyside this weekend, we caught up with Beth Lindop once again to reflect on Everton’s season to date…

How would you look back at Everton’s season?

Beth: “It's been a bit of a mixed season for Everton. They started the campaign poorly and also suffered a lot of damaging injuries in the first few weeks, which meant it took until November for them to secure their first WSL win.

“As the season has developed, however, they've started to find their stride and have had some really impressive results, including last weekend's 2-0 Merseyside derby win over Liverpool at Anfield. With manager Brian Sorensen having recently signed a new contract and Everton's takeover having been completed, there's a clarity and togetherness about the group now which is helping to propel them in the right direction.”

Who have been the standout players?

Beth: “I've been really impressed with Honoka Hayashi this season. The midfielder joined the club from West Ham United last summer and has been quietly consistent, featuring in all but one of Everton's WSL games so far this term and chipping in with some important goals.

“The Holmgaard twins - Karen and Sara - have both really progressed this season and are a threat from set pieces, while January signing Kelly Gago, who has four goals and two assists in nine WSL appearances since her January move from FC Nantes, has been a shrewd addition to the team.”

What has Brian Sørensen achieved this term?

Beth: “It's been tough for Sorensen over the past couple of seasons. He's made no secret of the fact that he's been working within a relatively tight budget and his task has been made harder by a raft of injuries to key players.

“To have gotten Everton up to eighth in the table after such a difficult start - with no danger of the club ever really being dragged into a relegation scrap - is a testament to both his skills as a coach and his player management abilities. That's why the club were so keen to get him tied down to a new deal.”

What can expect this weekend at Walton Hall Park?

Beth: “There's always a great atmosphere at Walton Hall Park. The fans are so close to the pitch and, considering it's the final game of the season, Everton supporters will be keen to end the campaign on a high. Both sets of players will be looking to do likewise, so hopefully we're in for a great game.”