Leeds United Women Unchanged XI vs Cheadle Town Today

Key Points

• Leeds United Women return to FA WNL Division One North action with an away fixture against Cheadle Town Women.
• The Whites aim to secure two away wins from two this year, following a 4-0 victory over Chorley Women in their previous outing.
• Manager Simon Wood has selected an unchanged starting line-up from the Chorley match.
• Goalkeeper Carrie Simpson starts between the posts.
• Back four consists of Alayna Millard, captain Shauna Legge, Emily Cassidy, and Darcie Greene.
• Midfield trio comprises Alice Hughes, Kath Smith, and Brittany Sanderson.
• Forward line led by Ellie White, Drew Greene, and Chloe Dixon.
• Bench includes goalkeeper Charlotte Oates, alongside Sian Gibrill-Keating, Paige Williams, Izzy Elliott, Amy Woodruff (returning from injury), and Macy Ellis.
• Starting XI: Simpson (GK), Millard, Legge (C), Cassidy, Darcie Greene, Hughes, Smith, Sanderson, White, Drew Greene, Dixon.
• Substitutes: Oates (GK), Gibrill-Keating, Williams, Elliott, Woodruff, Ellis.

Cheadle (The Leeds Times) February 8, 2026 – Leeds United Women travel to face Cheadle Town Women in the FA Women’s National League (WNL) Division One North this afternoon, with manager Simon Wood opting for continuity by naming an unchanged line-up from their recent 4-0 triumph over Chorley Women. The Whites, seeking a second successive away victory this year, field Carrie Simpson in goal behind a defensive quartet of Alayna Millard, captain Shauna Legge, Emily Cassidy, and Darcie Greene. This match represents a key opportunity for Leeds to build momentum in the league campaign.

Who Starts for Leeds United Women?

The starting XI reflects Simon Wood’s confidence in the side that dominated Chorley Women last time out. As detailed in the official team announcement, Carrie Simpson retains her place as goalkeeper, providing a solid foundation at the back. The back four remains unchanged:

Alayna Millard on the right, captain Shauna Legge marshalling the defence centrally alongside Emily Cassidy, with Darcie Greene completing the line on the left.

In midfield, Alice Hughes, Kath Smith, and Brittany Sanderson form a balanced trio capable of controlling the tempo against Cheadle Town.

Up front, Ellie White, Drew Greene, and Chloe Dixon lead the attack, having demonstrated their potency in the previous fixture. This selection underscores Wood’s tactical consistency, prioritising familiarity and form in what could be a testing away environment.

What Is the Bench Composition?

Simon Wood has assembled a strong bench featuring seven players, offering flexibility throughout the match. Charlotte Oates serves as the backup goalkeeper, ready to step in if required. Outfield options include Sian Gibrill-Keating, Paige Williams, and Izzy Elliott, who provide depth in defence and midfield.

Notably, Amy Woodruff returns from injury, bolstering the squad’s options, while Macy Ellis rounds out the substitutes. This bench composition allows for strategic substitutions, particularly if Cheadle Town pose a physical challenge or if Leeds seek to manage fatigue late in the game. Wood’s choices emphasise squad rotation potential without disrupting the starting harmony.

Why Has Simon Wood Kept an Unchanged Line-Up?

Simon Wood’s decision to retain the exact same starting XI from the Chorley victory signals unwavering belief in his players’ capabilities.

The 4-0 win away at Chorley demonstrated clinical finishing and defensive resilience, attributes Wood evidently wishes to replicate against Cheadle Town. By avoiding changes, he minimises disruption and maximises cohesion, a pragmatic approach in a competitive division.

This continuity also allows returning players like Amy Woodruff to ease back via the bench, preserving freshness in key areas. Wood’s pre-match comments, as relayed through club channels, highlight the importance of momentum: the team is

“looking to make it two from two away from home this year.”

Such selections are common in lower-tier women’s football, where squad depth can be limited, and form trumps experimentation.

What Recent Form Guides Leeds United Women?

Leeds United Women enter this fixture on the back of a convincing 4-0 away win over Chorley Women, their most recent league outing. This result not only boosted confidence but also marked a strong start to away games in 2026. The Whites’ attacking flair was evident, with the forward line converting chances efficiently against a stubborn opponent.

Earlier in the season, Leeds have shown resilience in Division One North, a league known for its physicality and unpredictability. While specific prior results are not detailed in the announcement, the focus on “two from two” underscores their intent to extend a positive run. Cheadle Town, hosting today, represent a mid-table challenge, but Leeds’ recent dominance positions them as favourites.

Who Are the Key Players to Watch?

Captain Shauna Legge anchors the defence, her leadership vital in high-stakes away matches. As skipper, Legge’s organisation and distribution from the back could dictate Leeds’ build-up play. Goalkeeper Carrie Simpson’s shot-stopping has been reliable, with clean sheets underpinning recent success.

In midfield, Brittany Sanderson’s energy and Kath Smith’s composure offer balance, while Alice Hughes links play effectively. Forward Chloe Dixon, paired with Ellie White and Drew Greene, forms a dynamic front three; their interplay was key against Chorley. Amy Woodruff’s return adds intrigue from the bench, potentially injecting pace if introduced.

Where Does This Match Fit in the Season Schedule?

This afternoon’s clash at Cheadle Town’s ground forms part of Leeds United Women’s packed FA WNL Division One North calendar. As a mid-season fixture in February 2026, it carries significance for positioning in the promotion race or consolidation efforts. Away wins are particularly prized, given travel demands in northern England.

Leeds’ focus on “back in action” suggests a resumption after a brief hiatus, possibly due to weather or cup commitments common in winter. Success here could propel them towards double figures in away points this term, enhancing their standings. Cheadle Town, as hosts, will draw on home advantage, but Leeds’ preparation indicates readiness for the test.

How Does the Team News Compare to Previous Outings?

Compared to the Chorley match, every starting position remains identical, a rare occurrence emphasising stability. The only notable addition is Amy Woodruff’s bench return, absent previously due to injury. This contrasts with more fluid selections in prior games, where rotation has been evident amid a congested schedule.

The bench, too, mirrors recent depth, with familiar names like Paige Williams and Izzy Elliott providing continuity. Such consistency aids tactical drills and player partnerships, crucial in women’s non-league football where resources are stretched. Observers note this as Wood’s most settled XI of the campaign to date.

What Challenges Might Cheadle Town Present?

While specific team news for Cheadle Town Women is unavailable in the Leeds announcement, their home venue often yields gritty performances. Hosting in Division One North, they could exploit set-pieces or counter-attacks against Leeds’ possession style. The pitch conditions on February 8, potentially affected by winter weather, may favour the hosts’ direct approach.

Leeds’ unchanged side must remain vigilant, particularly in transition phases where Sanderson and Hughes will be tested. Wood’s preparation likely includes scouting reports on Cheadle’s strengths, ensuring the Whites adapt swiftly.

Who Is Simon Wood and What Is His Managerial Approach?

Simon Wood, Leeds United Women’s manager, has instilled a pragmatic yet attacking ethos since taking charge. His naming of an unchanged XI reflects trust in proven performers, a hallmark of his tenure. Wood’s squads prioritise fitness and unity, evident in the 4-0 Chorley rout.

Pre-match, Wood emphasised the away target: defeating Chorley set the benchmark, and replicating it at Cheadle is paramount. His bench management, incorporating returnees like Woodruff, demonstrates foresight in squad husbandry.

When and Where Is the Match Taking Place?

The fixture kicks off this afternoon at Cheadle Town’s home ground, precise details aligned with standard WNL timings around 2pm. Travel from Leeds involves a northward journey through Greater Manchester, testing logistics on a February Sunday. Spectators can expect a community-focused atmosphere, typical of tier four women’s football.

What Are the Broader Implications for Leeds United Women?

A win would cement Leeds’ away form, vital for top-half aspirations in Division One North. It signals progression under Wood, potentially attracting scouts or youth talent. Conversely, dropped points could invite pressure from rivals.

The league’s structure demands consistency; two from two away fortifies their campaign. With Woodruff back, depth improves, aiding future fixtures.