

Fulham FC Women kicked off their 2024/25 campaign in scintillating fashion at Craven Cottage with a comprehensive 6-0 victory over Barking, marking an emphatic start to the season. There was a palpable sense of anticipation among the squad, and they did not disappoint.

The match saw Fulham line up with notable debuts for goalkeeper Amber Webber, new skipper Evie Gane and midfielder Lily Stevens adding strength and depth to the squad. From the outset, Fulham were eager to impose themselves on the game, and their attacking intent was clear as Sasha Adamson fired a shot over the crossbar in the 7th minute.
"Things are starting to come together as the group gets to play together more each week" - Steve Jaye
Just three minutes later, Fulham found the breakthrough. A well-placed cross from Megalie Mendes met Becky Stormer, whose header powered Fulham into an early 1-0 lead. This early goal set the tone for what would be a dominant display by the home side.
Fulham doubled their advantage just a minute later, as Sophie Manzi was on hand to tap in an excellent cross from Ellie Olds, putting Fulham in firm control at 2-0. The fluidity and chemistry among Fulham's players were evident, as they continued to pile on the pressure throughout the first half. Despite Barking's attempts to respond, Fulham's defence, led by the assured debutant Amber Webber, held firm.
There were further chances for Fulham to extend their lead before the break, with Ellie Olds coming closest as her header crashed against the crossbar. The half ended with Fulham comfortably in the lead at 2-0, though they could have easily been further ahead.
In the second half, Fulham wasted no time adding to their tally. In the 59th minute, Ellie Olds finally got her reward for a strong performance, bundling the ball home for Fulham’s third goal after a scramble in the box. Moments later, Madi Parsonson produced a stunning individual effort, dummied past a defender before curling a shot with the outside of her right foot into the bottom corner. Parsonson's strike, an early contender for goal of the season, extended the lead to 4-0.
Fulham were relentless in their pursuit of goals, and in the 65th minute, Ella Tagliavini got on the scoresheet with a well-timed header from another pinpoint cross by Ellie Olds, making it 5-0.
As the game entered its closing stages, Ellie Olds added further gloss to the scoreline
with her second goal of the match. Georgia Heasman set her up with a pass that capitalised on a mistake from the Barking goalkeeper, allowing Olds to tip the ball over the line for Fulham's sixth and final goal of the afternoon.
Reflecting on the match, head coach Steve Jaye was understandably delighted with his side’s performance: "A great start to the new campaign. Things are starting to come together as the group gets to play together more each week!"
The debuts of Gane, Stevens, and Webber offered a glimpse into Fulham's exciting potential for the season, while Tia Foreman's return added stability to the backline. Fulham’s relentless attacking performance, coupled with their solid defensive efforts, leaves them sitting 2nd in the league after the opening weekend.
With momentum on their side, Fulham now set their sights on their next fixture against Millwall Lionesses at Motspur Park on 25th August. After such a dominant opening display, confidence will surely be high as they look to build on this strong start.