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Khadija Shaw at the double as Manchester City make strong start to WSL defence The champions beat Birmingham 3-1, with Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham also successful on the opening weekend - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Khadija Shaw scored twice in the second half as Manchester City began their Women’s Super League title defence with a 3-1 victory over promoted Birmingham. City took the lead four minutes after the break when the ball dropped for Australia forward Mary Fowler, who swept into the bottom-right corner. Last season’s Golden Boot winner Shaw then headed home two corners to put the champions firmly in the ascendancy before Oceane Hurtre grabbed a last-minute consolation for Blues. Elsewhere, Lisa Baum produced a wonderful solo effort in the 10th minute of her Arsenal debut as the Gunners triumphed 1-0 at Brighton. The 19-year-old picked up possession midway inside the Brighton half and showed neat footwork to shift the ball past a couple of players before unleashing a shot in off the crossbar. Grace Fisk was at the double as Liverpool enjoyed a comfortable 4-0 victory at Charlton, newly-promoted to the WSL. Fisk scored early in each half at The Valley, with Vivien Endemann adding a third goal before Cornelia Kapocs’ stoppage-time penalty sealed the rout. New Tottenham signing Kirsty Hanson scored twice on her debut to help secure a 3-1 victory over West Ham. Hanson’s brace put the hosts in charge after Signe Gaupset had put them ahead, with Viviane Asseyi registering a consolation for the Hammers in the third minute of stoppage time. Promoted Crystal Palace made a winning start to life back in the top flight, beating Everton 1-0 thanks to Lexi Lloyd-Smith’s first-half strike at Borough Sports Ground. PA Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments