Irish abroad: Izzy Atkinson scores on debut and Leanne Kiernan returns from injury

It was a busy weekend for Ireland's women in both the Women's Super League and Championship.

Despite a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, Courtney Brosnan and Heather Payne put in solid performances for Everton.

For Liverpool, Leanne Kiernan made her return from injury as she was a second half substitute in their 1-1 draw against Tottenham, as she came on for Niamh Fahey.

Katie McCabe was missing for Arsenal, as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to West Ham, with Jesscia Ziu in midfield for the Hammers.

Megan Connolly started at centre-back for Bristol City as they twice came from behind to draw with Aston Villa, as they remain five points from safety.

In the championship, several Irish players made their debuts for new clubs after the January transfer window.

Jessie Stapleton made her first home start for Reading as they defeated Sunderland 1-0.

Izzy Atkinson scored her first goal for promotion chasing Crystal Palace as they defeated Southampton 2-1.

Grace Moloney, Megan Campbell and Ruesha LittleJohn were all in action for London City Lionesses, but they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers.