The revamped Subway Players' Cup began this week with a new Champions' League-style format, featuring six group games per team and an overall league table, with the top eight advancing.
The competition, which replaces the previous League Cup structure for WSL and WSL2 teams, is split into North and South regions for fixture purposes, though not for placing. A key change sees Champions' League teams excluded entirely, having previously entered at the knockout stages and dominated the latter rounds.
Mixed feelings over big-club omission
Opinions are divided on the new format. While it offers other clubs a chance at silverware, some question whether that opportunity is tainted by the absence of the biggest teams. A Community Shield-style opener between the cup holder and the highest-placed Champions' League team has been suggested as a possible improvement.
Local derbies and visits from major WSL sides have been drawn for the region's teams, promising sell-out crowds and strong tests throughout the season.
Sunderland's opening defeat
Sunderland played their first Players' Cup match last week, losing 4-2 to Liverpool despite leading at half-time. It was the first sighting of the side this season, with new players impressing and giving the WSL team plenty to think about.
Mel Reay's side travel to Watford this weekend, remaining unbeaten and sitting second behind Newcastle. Based on their recent display, they should maintain the pressure at the top.
Durham's triple-United week
Durham face three matches in three different venues this week. They start at Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in the league on Sunday, then host Manchester United in the cup at South Shields on Wednesday, before the region's first league local derby of the season at Maiden Castle against Newcastle.
Willie Kirk's side are yet to earn a point but have shown improving performances, having been unlucky against Nottingham Forest last time out. Durham have never lost at home to Manchester United in three attempts, including two League Cup meetings, and one of those games is among supporters' all-time favourites.
The cup tie marks the first competitive game at Mariners Park. Before that, they meet fellow bottom side Sheffield United, who lost 10-1 to Manchester United in the cup last week.
Newcastle's busy week ahead
Newcastle United head coach Tanya Oxtoby is likely to feel confident after a strong start, facing what could be her biggest test yet with three games in the coming week. The team top WSL2 with three wins and have the squad depth to handle their busiest week of the season.
A home game against fourth-placed Leicester City is followed by two away fixtures: WSL side Aston Villa in the cup on Wednesday and a short trip to Durham next weekend. Leicester began the season well but lost at home to Ipswich last weekend, though they performed well against London City Lionesses in midweek cup action, conceding only two late goals.
