A Level Playing Field

Melissa Andreatta reveals Emslie return to Scotland Squad I A Level Playing Field I Episode 21

In this episode of A Level Playing Field, Melissa Andreatta joins us ahead of Scotland’s crucial double header against Israel in Hungary, with both fixtures set to be played behind closed doors. Andreatta reflects on her latest squad selection, offering insight into key inclusions and the balance she’s building within the group.  She also discusses the welcome return of Claire Emslie, who is back in contention just five months after the birth of her son - a significant moment both personally and professionally. Looking ahead, Andreatta outlines her ambitions for the squad as they continue to evolve, and what success looks like in the coming window.  The conversation also turns to the domestic game, as she shares her thoughts on a dramatic SWPL title race reaching its conclusion this weekend. It’s an open and insightful chat with one of the key figures shaping the future of the Scotland national team. Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/fan_mail/new] In partnership with Zenith Coins.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/support] Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!  Chat to your hosts on X HERE:  @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

Inside Celtic's Season with Grant Scott I A Level Playing Field I Episode 20

This week on A Level Playing Field, we’re joined by Grant Scott for an in-depth conversation at a pivotal moment in the season for Celtic Women. With the Scottish Women's Cup Final looming against fierce rivals Rangers, Grant Scott reflects on the challenge ahead and what it would mean to end the campaign with silverware after 6 months in the role.  He also opens up on the disappointment of missing out on the league title, and how the squad has responded in the aftermath. The conversation turns to the summer ahead - covering transfer plans, the realities of operating within budgets, and how Celtic aim to strengthen while continuing to build a clear identity on and off the pitch.  He also shares his perspective on FIFA’s new directive on increasing opportunities for female coaches, and what it could mean for the future of the women’s game. There’s also a candid discussion around fan expectations and frustrations, and the importance of connection between the club and its supporters during periods of transition. Plus, he pays tribute to outgoing Hearts manager Eva Olid, highlighting her impact on the league and the standard she’s helped set. A thoughtful, honest, and timely episode as the season reaches its conclusion.  Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/fan_mail/new] In partnership with Zenith Coins.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/support] Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!  Chat to your hosts on X HERE:  @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

Laura Montgomery’s Lasting Impact on the Growth of Women’s Football I A Level Playing Field I Episode 19

In this episode of A Level Playing Field, we sit down with Laura Montgomery, one of the most influential figures in Scottish women's football and one half of the driving force behind Glasgow City’s rise to the top of the women’s game. Laura reflects on the journey from founding a club with limited resources to building a dominant force in domestic football, all while navigating the challenges of sustainability, visibility, and growth in the women’s game.  We explore the realities behind running a successful club, the progress made in recent years, and where the game still needs to go. From grassroots development to the business side of football, this is an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, resilience, and shaping the future of the sport. If you care about where women’s football is headed and how it got here - this is one you won’t want to miss!  Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/support] Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!  Chat to your hosts on X HERE:  @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

PFA Scotland SWPL Awards Special: Meet the Nominees I A Level Playing Field I Episode 18

A Level Playing Field returns with a special episode spotlighting the standout performers of the SWPL season. We’re joined by a host of nominees for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards to reflect on their campaigns, key moments, and what this recognition means to them. Hear from Player of the Year nominees Katie Wilkinson (Rangers), Georgie Timms (Hearts), Lee Gibson (Glasgow City) and Nicole Kozlova, as well as Young Player of the Year nominees Lisa Forrest (Glasgow City) and Laura Berry (Rangers). From title races to personal milestones, it’s an insight into the players who have defined the season and a look ahead to who might take home the honours. 🎙️⚽ Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/support] Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!  Chat to your hosts on X HERE:  @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

World Cup Belief, Title Race Heat & PFA Team of the Year | A Level Playing Field I Episode 17

Cheryl Smith and Alison McConnell are back with a fresh episode of A Level Playing Field, diving into all the big talking points in Scottish women’s football. The duo kick things off with the international break, reflecting on a positive window for Scotland and what it means for growing belief around their World Cup qualification hopes.  There’s also a look at the newly announced PFA SWPL Team of the Year, with discussion around the standout performers and any notable inclusions or omissions. Attention then turns to domestic matters, including Rangers’ decision to move a fixture from Ibrox to Broadwood, and the questions it raises around scheduling and supporter accessibility with an inconvenient kick-off time. Finally, it’s all about the title race, with Cheryl and Alison assessing where things stand, who has the momentum, and what could prove decisive in the weeks ahead. Insightful, honest, and full of passion for the game.  This is one you won’t want to miss!  Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/fan_mail/new] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2559401/support] Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!  Chat to your hosts on X HERE:  @alibali76 @JournoCherylS