Liverpool Ladies: Matt Beard says WSL title will not come easily

Manager Matt Beard has warned Liverpool Ladies against complacency as they edge closer to becoming champions.

The Reds have a five-point lead at the summit and the title is likely to be decided in a winner-takes-all clash with Bristol Academy on 29 September.

"We're top of the league but we're not going to take that for granted," Beard told BBC North West Tonight.

"We've got to keep our feet grounded and make sure we work as hard as we can to prepare for that game."

Liverpool beat Merseyside rivals Everton 4-2 on Thursday to maintain their five-point lead at the top of the table.

That gap could be closed to two on Sunday when Bristol face Doncaster Rovers Belles in their game in hand, while reigning champions Arsenal could also still retain their crown.

Natasha Dowie, who scored a hat-trick against Everton, said: "I am confident [of finishing top] but football is a crazy game.

"I believe we've got the talent to win the title and our performances this season have been very good, but Bristol have had a great season as well.

"We've got to be really confident, get the three points and win that title.

Liverpool finished bottom of the WSL in its first two seasons but have been front-runners this term after a huge investment from the club's American owners.

Dowie, who is the league's top scorer, was one of 12 close-season signings and her goals have put the Reds on the verge of their maiden top-flight title.

It is 10 years since a team other than Arsenal have won the English title, with Fulham winning the women's Premier League in 2003.