BRISTOL CITY will kick off their Women’s Super League season at Ashton Gate, in a move which could “propel women’s football in the south west forward.”

City will welcome Brighton on September 7 as the club looks to better their sixth-placed finish from last season.

Bristol City Women chair Mark Ashton was delighted to secure Ashton Gate, the men’s team have no game due to the international break, as the club hope to capitalise on the expanding fan base following a spectacular Women’s World Cup.

Ashton said: “We’re delighted to confirm that Ashton Gate will play host to Bristol City Women’s opening game against Brighton and Hove Albion.”

“It is fantastic to host Barclays FA Women’s Super League action at our home and in such a first-class facility to kick off what we all believe is going to be another brilliant season for Tanya.” 

Bristol City won’t be the only team playing the opening fixture of the season at a men’s stadium, with Manchester City hosting United at Eastlands and Chelsea welcoming Tottenham to Stamford Bridge.

Ashton added: “Naturally this is the next step in the development of the relationship between both City men and women.

“We believe this fixture can be another catalyst to propel women’s football in the South West forward, especially after such a successful Women’s World Cup, and we would urge City and football supporters in general to come down for what will be a great occasion.”

Manager Tanya Oxtoby called on fans to turn up in and support the team, saying: “It’s fantastic that our season opener against Brighton is going to be played at Ashton Gate. I think this highlights the strong connectivity between the men and the women’s side of our club and I know the girls are really excited to be playing at such a brilliant stadium. 

“We’d really love a big crowd to come out and support us, and we can put in a big performance to start the season with a win.”