What an oversight! Scheduling error means Arsenal's WSL clash with Everton can't be streamed

WSL matches are freely accessible on the Football Association's official streaming site. But this particular fixture, scheduled at 14:00 GMT, clashes with the UK's Saturday afternoon blackout period, prohibiting live football broadcasts between 14:45 and 17:15 (UK time). Hence, the match will only be viewable on screens after its completion in the UK, while it will still be streamed live abroad.

A statement released by the FA read: "Due to UEFA's Article 48, Arsenal's home game against Everton will not be live on FA Player this week. The game will instead be available to watch on FA Player shortly after the conclusion of the match."

This oversight in scheduling arose despite WSL clubs agreeing on preferred kick-off times before the season and notifying the FA. Both teams decided to move the Saturday meeting forward to allow more recovery time for players, and initially, no issues regarding broadcast rights were raised. It was too late when the issue was flagged to the FA as tickets were already sold and there was little time to reschedule the fixture.

The incident has prompted discussions about the need for a more centralized process, which will possibly be led by NewCo, an independent group that is set to take over the WSL. Negotiations for a new broadcast deal will be a key priority for NewCo as the existing agreement with Sky Sports, BBC Sport, and the FA expires at the end of the current campaign.