The WSL has launched an investigation into a breach of competition rules in Everton’s 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at the VBS Community Stadium. Lexi Lloyd-Smith's first-half strike decided the season opener. However, the WSL has confirmed there was a breach of rules as a result of the number of substitution stoppages made by the Eagles in the second half of the game. The WSL has issued the following statement: “We can confirm there was a breach of competition rules in the Crystal Palace versus Everton match. Crystal Palace used a fourth substitution opportunity during a fourth stoppage in play, when the rules permit a maximum of three substitution opportunities per match. We will now conduct an investigation alongside both clubs and Pro Ref and update in due course.”