Ahead of the opening fixtures of the 2020/21 season, Stats Perform’s latest season review focuses on the standout performers from the previous WSL campaign.
ACCESS OUR INTERACTIVE WSL SEASON REVIEW HERE
These reviews apply advanced metrics to deliver key performance insights, at both the team and player level. The advanced metrics used in the report are derived from event data and include Expected Goals (xG), Expected Assists (xA), Expected Goals on Target (xGOT) and Sequences and Possessions.
Key findings highlighted in the review include:
– Chelsea’s ability to generate high quality chances from open play was reflected in their xG output of 31.1, the highest in WSL, which they outperformed by six clear goals.
– Emma Hayes’ side also generated the highest xG from set pieces, however they scored three fewer set piece goals than Reading, who generated 33% of their xG from set play situations.
– West Ham United conceded more than double the number of set piece goals (13) than the next highest team, which was nearly 50% more than their xG conceded.
– Manchester City were the WSL’s standout team in terms of initiating goal scoring opportunities after winning the ball back high up the pitch. No team recorded more shots following a high turnover than City’s total of 38, which resulted in five goals.
– Chelsea’s Beth England recorded the highest xG per 90 output in the competition, which she matched in terms of her goals scored. The 26-year old displayed versatility with her finishing, scoring over a third of her goals with her head as well as striking twice from distance.
– As well as topping the xA rankings, Janine Beckie also created more chances following a carry than any other WSL player. The Canadian made 17 carries per 90 down the right hand side during the season, which resulted in 15 key passes and four assists, more than any other player.
ACCESS OUR INTERACTIVE WSL SEASON REVIEW HERE
Check our other season reviews below:
Premier League Interactive Review
EFL Championship Interactive Review
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