Liverpool Women are ditching Prenton Park to play at a new home next season as they continue their rapid growth.
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One more match at Prenton ParkTen-year lease on new stadiumWill try to play games at AnfieldWHAT HAPPENED?
The Reds have reached an agreement to host their matches at the St Helens Stadium, which is the home of British rugby side St Helens who compete in the Super League. As the rugby season runs from February to September, Liverpool will have sole occupancy of 18,000-capacity ground for half of their campaign.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite having a new permanent home in place with a 10-year lease, Liverpool Women will seek to play as many games as possible at Anfield next season. The move to St Helens is still a huge step for the club, though and will greatly improve the matchday experience for an ever-growing fan base. Matt Beard's side will play their final match at Prenton Park today, taking on fierce rivals Manchester United.
GettyWHAT BEARD SAID
Beard told the club's official website: “This is the exciting next chapter on our journey, and I’m absolutely delighted with this investment from the club.
“At the heart of this move are the two most important groups at the club: the players and the fans. The players will have a wonderful new pitch and facilities to enjoy, while the matchday experience for the supporters will be so much improved.
“We’ve built up a loyal following at Prenton Park and we look forward to welcoming them to St Helens along with hopefully opening up the women’s game to many new supporters as well.”
WHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?
Liverpool have enjoyed a hugely promising season in the Women's Super League and beat defending champions Chelsea 4-3 on Wednesday evening. A victory over United would see the Merseysiders move up to fourth in the table and ahead of their rivals, with a trip to Leicester awaiting them on the final weekend.