Powell: Great to win but we can improve

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Albion's head coach reflects on 2-0 victory over West Ham in WSL opener

Bruce Talbot

2021-09-05T16:00:00Z

Hope Powell's side began their WSL campaign with a relatively comfortable 2-0 win over West Ham United.

Hope Powell was delighted to make a winning start to the new season but admitted there was still room for improvement after the 2-0 win over West Ham United.

The game turned Albion's way 11 minutes before the break when West Ham defender Hawa Cissoko was sent off for handling Danielle Carter's shot and Inessa Kaagman fired home from the penalty spot.

Guenmin Lee made it 2-0 before the break to delight a crowd of 2264 at the Amex.

Powell said, "I'm pleased with the three points but it was really hard work. Credit to West Ham for that. They gave us a really difficult 90 minutes. Both teams tried to play and our players will admit we weren't at our best so to come away with a win was really pleasing. Later on when I'm relaxing I'll probably appreciate it a bit more!

"Conditions were tough. It was very hot and obviously it's a big pitch. They lost a player to a handball which I didn't see and went down to ten men but sometimes that can be challenging. I just thought our passing was a bit off at times and we moved the ball a bit slowly.

"The goal came at the right time and made it difficult for them with ten men but overall we have to do better. This league is tough and getting harder every season but it's a good start nonetheless."

Powell was pleased with the performance of debutant Carter, who won the penalty and set up the second goal.

"I thought she did well. She ran the line well and produced some good movement. We need to work on releasing her quicker but she brings so much experience, especially helping the younger players, but she brings so much to us."

Albion are back in action on 12 September when they visit St Andrew's to take on Birmingham City.