Kirsty Hanson scores twice on debut as Spurs swoop quietly

Kirsty Hanson’s move to Tottenham from Aston Villa looked slightly under the radar this summer — but her debut has made it hard to ignore. According to BBC Sport, the striker scored two goals as Spurs beat West Ham 3-1 on Sunday, underlining why manager Martin Ho was so keen to bring her in.

Two goals that set the tone

Her first strike came from a one-on-one chance, finishing with enough power to find the net after looping off the goalkeeper’s foot. The better goal arrived in the second half, with 16 minutes to play: Hanson cut onto her left side and curled a shot into the far top corner to effectively settle the match.

The wider context helps explain the confidence. BBC Sport notes that Hanson was the WSL’s third-highest scorer last season even though Villa finished ninth in the table. She delivered 12 goals in 22 matches, with only PFA Player of the Year Khadija Shaw and England striker Alessia Russo scoring more.

A familiar coach, a clear fit

There’s also a strong football link. BBC Sport reports Hanson had worked with Ho during his time as assistant coach at Manchester United between 2020 and 2023, and Spurs backed that connection by signing her for an undisclosed fee in this window. In comments to BBC Sport in August, Hanson said: “I know he gets the best out of me with the detail he puts in” and added that she wants “to achieve” Tottenham’s ambition “while I’m here.”

Tottenham finished fifth last season and are aiming for a top-three spot to qualify for the Women’s Champions League. BBC Sport also points out that Spurs have strengthened further with signings including Shekiera Martinez, Alice Sombath and Victoria Pelova, meaning competition for starts will be intense.

For now, Hanson’s early impact suggests Spurs may have landed a piece of business that fits both the short-term and the long-term plan.