1. The return of the West Ham United faithful
It has been a long time coming, but finally the West Ham United fans will get to see their team in action on home soil once again.
The last and only time that supporters were able to cheer the team on at Victoria Road was almost a year to the day ago! On 12 September 2020, the Hammers took on Arsenal in what was one of the first authorised pilot matches after the initial COVID lockdown in March 2020.
The Hammers will certainly be hoping for a better result than the one they picked up on that day – and with the returning fans roaring them on, it’s sure to be a fantastic game of football.
2. All change at Victoria Road
There have been some major changes at Victoria Road that have taken place over the summer. A new playing surface has been installed at the ground that is one of the best in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League.
The pitch is a hybrid grass surface built on a sand base, increasing drainage and playability whilst maintaining a consistent surface. Teams like Real Madrid, Manchester City and Brentford all play on similar type of pitch. A full irrigation system has also been added, meaning that the Hammers should be able to play some superb football over the course of the season.
The ground has also received a facelift, with West Ham United branding now visible around the stadium to give it that homely feel!
3. Meet the new signings!
It has certainly been a busy summer for women’s manager Olli Harder. Eleven new players have joined the squad during the transfer window from a whole host of different countries and clubs.
Lisa Evans, Claudia Walker and Abbey-Leigh Stringer have joined from fellow WSL sides Arsenal, Birmingham City and Everton respectively, whilst exciting English prospects like Mel Filis and Lucy Parker have also joined the Irons.
From further afield, tricky Japanese international Yui Hasegawa and experienced midfielders Zaneta Wyne and Tameka Yallop now also call east London their home.
You will have the opportunity to watch them live for the very first time at our home ground by attending on Saturday!
4. Watch our Olympic Gold medallist in action
Adriana Leon achieved what many of us can only dream of this summer, as she clinched a Gold Medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games with her country, Canada.
The Canadians had to battle their way through tough tests like Brazil and neighbours the United States, before finally overcoming Sweden in the final on penalties to clinch the prestigious medal.
Leon is also delighted to be back in the Claret and Blue of West Ham United and will be hoping to continue her summer of success into the 2021/22 WSL campaign!
5. A family friendly atmosphere
The return of the Claret and Blue Army should mean that there’s a strong atmosphere on Saturday morning, but you can also expect the usual family feel at the game! We want the next generation of young footballers to be inspired by our stars out on the pitch.
West Ham United Women firmly believe that football is for everyone – and we hope to see as many of you cheering the team on come 11.30am on Saturday!
