O'Sullivan Scores on Dream Debut for Liverpool

Republic of Ireland midfielder Denise O'Sullivan marked her Liverpool FC Women debut with a dream goal just six minutes into the match, during their Women's FA Cup fourth-round tie against London Bees at the Hive on Sunday.[2]

The 31-year-old Cork native, who officially joined the club on Saturday from North Carolina Courage after nearly nine successful years in the NWSL, wasted no time making an impact. Starting straight away despite the recent transfer—subject to international clearance—O'Sullivan expertly turned a cross from the end-line past the keeper at the near post to open the scoring.[2][1]

O'Sullivan arrives with an illustrious resume: over 128 caps for Ireland, two NWSL Championships, three Shields, and two Challenge Cups with the Courage, where she became the all-time appearance leader (186 games) and captain from 2023. Her move closer to family—a mere 40-minute flight from Liverpool—is a proud milestone, as she told the club website: "Liverpool is a massive club... I can't wait to get to work and give 100 per cent every day."[1][4][5]

She joins international teammate Leanne Kiernan and drew advice from former Ireland captain Niamh Fahey, now Liverpool's first women's technical co-ordinator. O'Sullivan, who had a 2020 loan at Brighton (9 games), aims to lift the Reds from the foot of the WSL table—winless after 12 games with four points—while targeting cup success. "I want to help this team... lead by example," she said.[1][2][3]

Manager Gareth Taylor's injury-hit side welcomes her leadership. O'Sullivan paid tribute to the Courage: "North Carolina will always be my home."[5] Her instant contribution signals a bright start to a challenging campaign.

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