The 2024/25 Season was another chapter of growth and challenge for Wolverhampton Wanderers Women. Under the leadership of Dan McNamara, the team once again fought hard at the top of the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division.
However, while their performances on the pitch deserved applause, decisions off it ultimately prevented the club from taking the next step. We will review the highs, the frustrations and the standout stars of Wolves Women’s season – and look ahead to what the future might hold.
Season Overview: Close But No Reward
Wolves Women once again proved that they are one of the strongest sides in the third tier of English women’s football. A blistering start to the campaign saw them win nine of their first eleven matches, losing just once, which would also be their only league loss of the season. Highlights of the season included an 8-0 Demolition of local rivals West Bromwich Albion in October and a 6-0 victory over Halifax Town temporarily lifted the team to the league’s summit.
McNamara described the achievement as one of the biggest of his managerial career, a testament to the quality and cohesion within his squad. Wolves remained in contention for the title until the final day, showing impressive consistency against increasingly well-resourced opposition. However, they ultimately fell short of topping the table, finishing just three points behind the league champions, Nottingham Forest.
Off-Pitch Controversy: Promotion Dreams Dashed
Arguably, the most painful aspect of Wolves’ 2024/25 campaign came not from a match result but from the boardroom. Despite battling for top spot, it has emerged that Wolves’ senior leadership had not submitted the required application for promotion to the Women’s Championship. Wolves Midfielder Beth Merrick posted on X, “Imagine fighting for promotion all season to find out our championship bid was never submitted”.
In the FA Women’s football pyramid, clubs must apply and be licensed to move up a division – it’s not solely based on league position. Wolves’ failure to submit their paperwork meant they would have been ineligible for promotion even if they had won the Northern Premier Division.
This revelation caused understandable frustration among players, staff and supporters. After years of hard work, striving for a professional football career, being denied a chance for off-field reasons was a crushing blow. It has raised important questions about the club’s long-term commitment to the Women’s team.
Standout Performers
Despite the off-field drama, many players delivered outstanding individual campaigns.
Amber Hughes: The Talismanic forward delivered with a 20-goal haul. Hughes’ sharp movement and clinical finishing made her a constant threat and a key figure throughout the season.
Tammi George: Operating in central midfield, George scored five goals in 22 appearances and was instrumental in linking defence and attack. She was also one of the first Wolves Women players to sign a part-time professional contract in 2024, as the Express & Star reported.
Beth Merrick: The experienced midfielder netted six goals, including a memorable early goal in the 6-0 win over Halifax. Her leadership was vital during tense periods of the season.
Anna Morphet: A model of consistency at the back, Morphet scored six goals. As one of the three part-time contracted players, her commitment on and off the pitch was a great example to younger teammates. (All stats from The FA)
Conclusion: Hope And Uncertainty
The 2024/25 season encapsulated everything Wolves Women have come to represent: resilience, quality, and ambition—but it also laid bare the structural challenges they face. Without Championship status, there’s a risk that bigger, more invested clubs could lure away the most talented players.
The foundations are in place for future success. Still, Wolves must match the ambition of their players and coaching staff off the field if they are to reach their potential in the increasingly competitive landscape of women’s football. Wolves Women continue to show they have the talent and determination to thrive at a higher level.
With the proper backing and a clearer pathway to promotion, the 2025/26 season could finally be the year they turn potential into reality.
