Liverpool handed perfect chance to show progress as Leicester City revenge eyed

Ahead of Liverpool's Women's Super League (WSL) clash with West Ham, manager Matt Beard was asked whether this was the sort of game his side ought to be winning.

His response was coy, acknowledging the immense effort required to pick up points in a league that seems to grow more competitive by the week. Last season, the Reds boss was candid in his assessment of what would constitute a successful season for his side. Considering it was Liverpool's first season back in the top flight after a two-year exile to the Championship, the primary goal was survival.

But this term, with a campaign of WSL experience under their belts and with the powers that be having invested in both the playing squad and the club's off-field infrastructure, expectations are higher. Liverpool's goal is to better last season's seventh-place finish and close the gap on the league's established top four.

For that reason, it will have been frustrating for Beard to see his side surrender their narrow lead deep into stoppage time against the Hammers last time out. Riko Ueki's equaliser meant Liverpool had to settle for a point at the Chigwell Construction Stadium, leaving them sixth in the table heading into the international break.

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And, while the Reds' start to the season has largely been positive, Beard will know more is required of his side if they are to fully realise their top flight ambitions this term. With that in mind, Liverpool could scarcely have asked for a more fitting opponent to help showcase their recent progress than Leicester City.

The Foxes will visit Prenton Park on Sunday in the hopes of scoring a