Nottingham Forest Women 2-0 Burnley Women: Clinical Forest secure WSL 2 home win

Nottingham Forest Women delivered a composed and ruthless performance to beat Burnley Women 2-0 in the FA Women's Super League 2 on Sunday, 4 October 2026. In a 21:00 kick-off, Forest struck once in each half and defended their lead with maturity, securing three valuable points in front of their home supporters.

The result strengthens Nottingham Forest's position in the early-season promotion conversation, while Burnley are left to reflect on a night of promise without reward. Forest were sharper in the final third, more disciplined out of possession, and fully deserved their clean sheet.

Match overview

From the opening exchanges, Burnley tried to impose themselves through patient possession, but Forest's midfield block made it difficult for the visitors to find space between the lines. Forest looked dangerous whenever they won the ball back, attacking quickly through the channels and asking questions of Burnley's back four.

The home side took the lead just before the half-hour mark and never looked back. Burnley improved after the break and pushed more players forward, but Forest defended their box well and added a second goal in the closing stages to put the result beyond doubt.

Key moments

• 28' – Forest take the lead: Maya Turner pounced on a loose ball just outside the penalty area and drove a low finish into the bottom corner, giving the Burnley goalkeeper no chance.
• 41' – Burnley's best chance: Leah Embley connected with a cross from the right but saw her header clip the top of the crossbar as Forest survived a warning.
• 74' – Forest double the advantage: Georgia Walters rose highest from a corner and powered a header into the net to make it 2-0.
• 86' – Late save: Forest goalkeeper Emily Batty produced a strong one-handed stop to preserve the clean sheet and deny Burnley a consolation goal.

Tactical story

Nottingham Forest set up in a disciplined 4-2-3-1 shape, inviting Burnley onto them before hitting on the counter. The two holding midfielders protected the centre-backs superbly, forcing Burnley to play wide and cross into areas where Forest's defenders were comfortable.

Burnley enjoyed more of the ball but struggled to turn possession into clear chances. Their best moments came from set-pieces and second balls, yet Forest's organisation held firm. When Forest did attack, they were direct and efficient, especially down the right side, where their full-back overlapped consistently.

Standout players

Maya Turner was the standout performer, not only for her opening goal but for her relentless pressing and link-up play. Georgia Walters was a threat in both boxes, while Emily Batty's late save capped a confident goalkeeping display. For Burnley, captain Hannah Coan worked tirelessly in midfield, but she lacked support in the final third.

What it means for the FA Women's Super League 2 table

Nottingham Forest Women move into the top four with this victory, strengthening their push for promotion. Burnley Women remain in the lower mid-table and will need to convert possession into goals if they are to climb the standings. Forest's next fixture will be an opportunity to build momentum, while Burnley must regroup quickly ahead of a crucial run of matches.