Man United Women edge closer to securing Champions League spot with win over Everton
Manchester United Women defeated Everton 2-0 at Leigh Sports Village in the Women’s Super League fixture on Sunday afternoon.
Marc Skinner made two changes to the side that started against Aston Villa last weekend.
Dominique Janssen replaced Millie Turner, who missed out due to injury, while Anna Sandberg replaced the suspended Gabby George.
The visitors got off to a flying start as striker Katja Snoeijs poked the ball home, but a handball in the build-up led referee Phoebe Cross to disallow the goal.
United responded with forward Elisabeth Terland sending an effort wide before the Toffees came close again through Kelly Gago and Toni Payne.
Terland forced Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan into a save before Phallon Tullis-Joyce denied Gago from putting the visitors ahead.
The hosts took the lead in the 22nd minute when Brosnan failed to handle the ball cleanly. Martina Fernandez’s attempted clearance fell to Janssen, who tucked it home.
Brosnan almost committed another costly error when her misplaced pass found midfielder Grace Clinton, but she failed to capitalise.
The Everton goalkeeper made a crucial save to deny Celin Bizet from doubling United’s advantage.
Captain Maya Le Tissier came close to scoring before halftime, with her 20-yard effort rattling the crossbar.
Two minutes after the restart, United extended their lead. Leah Galton delivered a perfect cross into the area, and Clinton cushioned the ball into the net.
Skinner was forced into a change in the 55th minute when Bizet picked up an injury and was replaced by Melvine Malard.
Clinton had a chance to add to her tally when Ella Toone slipped the ball to her, but she blazed her effort off target.
United have now moved a step closer to securing Champions League qualification. They need two more wins to guarantee European football for the second time.
Article written by Henry Thornton .