The gulf between Fulham Ladies and the rest was perfectly illustrated when Marieanne Spacey arrived at the club this week.

Spacey, the biggest name in women's football, has joined Fulham on a one-year contract from Arsenal who are likely to be their main rivals for honours this season.

The men's equivalent would be Thierry Henry signing for Manchester United but Spacey's move is hardly surprising as she is linking up with the only professional women's club in England.

She arrives with unquestionable credentials, having been the top scorer in the Premier League last season and the winner of the players' player of the year award.

Deadlinepix PT0649-B

July 9, 2002 13:00