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A Level Playing Field

A Level Playing Field

Written by: Cheryl Smith & Alison McConnell
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About this listen

A Podcast co-hosted by Scottish football journalists Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith.


We chat all things women's football, including the latest SWPL action, as well as hot topics from across the globe.

© 2026 A Level Playing Field
Football (American)
Episodes
  • World Cup Belief, Title Race Heat & PFA Team of the Year | A Level Playing Field I Episode 17
    Apr 22 2026

    Cheryl Smith and Alison McConnell are back with a fresh episode of A Level Playing Field, diving into all the big talking points in Scottish women’s football.

    The duo kick things off with the international break, reflecting on a positive window for Scotland and what it means for growing belief around their World Cup qualification hopes.

    There’s also a look at the newly announced PFA SWPL Team of the Year, with discussion around the standout performers and any notable inclusions or omissions.

    Attention then turns to domestic matters, including Rangers’ decision to move a fixture from Ibrox to Broadwood, and the questions it raises around scheduling and supporter accessibility with an inconvenient kick-off time.

    Finally, it’s all about the title race, with Cheryl and Alison assessing where things stand, who has the momentum, and what could prove decisive in the weeks ahead.
    Insightful, honest, and full of passion for the game.

    This is one you won’t want to miss!

    Send us Fan Mail

    Support the show

    Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!

    Chat to your hosts on X HERE:

    @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

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    33 mins
  • Rose Reilly: A Pioneer’s Story of Breaking Barriers I A Level Playing Field I Episode 16
    Apr 7 2026

    This week on A Level Playing Field we’re joined by a true trailblazer of the women’s game - Rose Reilly.

    A World Cup champion, and one of Scotland’s most iconic footballing exports, Rose reflects on a remarkable career that broke boundaries across generations and continents.

    From her early days in Scotland to conquering the world stage with Italy, she shares the stories behind the headlines, the challenges, the triumphs, and the moments that defined her journey.

    We dive into how the women’s game has evolved, what still needs to change, and why the current generation should never take their platform for granted.

    Plus, Rose gives her take on today’s Scottish game and the players catching her eye.

    It’s a fascinating, honest, and inspiring conversation with a true pioneer of the sport.

    Send us Fan Mail

    In partnership with Zenith Coins.

    Support the show

    Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!

    Chat to your hosts on X HERE:

    @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Sarah Rhind: Addiction, loss & the game I love I A Level Playing Field I Episode 15
    Mar 30 2026

    In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Sarah Rhind to explore the powerful story behind her book Scars Under the Jersey: Addiction, Loss and the Game I Love.

    Sarah speaks openly about her journey through recovery, the grip of addiction, and the lasting impact of grief after personal loss. It’s an honest and emotional conversation about rebuilding your life when everything has been stripped back and the strength it takes to keep going.

    We also dive into her connection with Street Soccer, representing Scotland at the Homeless World Cup, and how the game became a lifeline during some of her darkest moments.

    From there, Sarah reflects on her return to the professional game with Hamilton Accies Women in the Scottish Women's Premier League and what football means to her now.

    We also talk about the process of writing the book, why she felt ready to share her story, and the hope it can give to others facing similar battles.

    This is a raw, inspiring and ultimately uplifting episode about recovery, resilience, and finding purpose through football.

    Get your copy HERE 👉 amzn.eu/d/06yCMlPK

    Send us Fan Mail

    In partnership with Zenith Coins.

    Support the show

    Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!

    Chat to your hosts on X HERE:

    @alibali76 @JournoCherylS

    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
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