READING FC Women got their Women’s Super League 1 season up and running with a memorable 3-0 away win against Liverpool Ladies.

Kelly Chambers’ Royals bounced back from their opening-day defeat with a superb performance in Widnes for their first victory of the new campaign.

The visitors took the lead in spectacular fashion last Friday when Fara Williams smashed a 25-yard volley past England keeper Siobhan Chamberlain in the 23rd minute.

Royals doubled their lead eight minutes later when Remi Allen’s persistence paid off, the midfielder tapping home the rebound after Jade Moore’s effort had been saved.

Reading remained the better side in the first half, but they were given a let-off after the break when Liverpool’s Caroline Weir hit the post.

It proved a crucial moment in the match as Royals grabbed their third soon after, Brooke Chaplen cleverly rounding Chamberlain before firing home.

The Reds threw bodies forward in the closing period as the shots rained down on Mary Earps’ goal, but Royals held firm to secure all three points.

Reading defender Harriet Scott said: "It was a solid performance after the result last week, just what we needed.

“There was a clear game plan and we were able to defend our lead throughout. The clean sheet is massive.”

Liverpool (4-3-3): Chamberlain, Murray (Harris 82'), Bonner, Stoney, Greenwood, Ingle, Coombs, Weir, Charles (Clarke 60'), Harding, England. Subs not used: Flaherty, Longhurst, Johnson, Fletcher, Hodson.

Reading (4-3-3): Earps, Rowe, Bartrip, Pearce, Scott, Moore, Allen, Williams (Bruton 79), Chaplen (Furness 79), Linnett, Potter. Subs not used: Maloney, Jane, Van den Berg, Green, Clifford.

Referee: Joe Hull.

Attendance: 481.