"We know it’s not going to be easy, but we are really looking forward to the challenge."
Those were the words of Liverpool boss Matt Beard ahead of the Reds' exultant return to the Women's Super League. After a two-year exile to the second tier, Liverpool secured promotion back to the top flight in scintillating fashion, notching up a 20-game unbeaten run to cruise to the Championship title last April.
However, the extent of the challenge facing the Reds in the WSL has been laid bare in the first half of the season. A stunning comeback against reigning champions Chelsea on the opening day was succeeded by a seven-game winless run that saw Matt Beard's side plummet down the table.
