Everton Women outperformed mid-table rivals West Ham United admirably, moving them up to fifth place in the WSL standings.
A three goal thriller secured a spectacular victory for the blues as they dominated the travelling side at Walton Hall Park on Sunday.
Karen Holmgaard took just three minutes to gain the opener for Everton. A well worked set piece from Nicoline Sørensen and Jess Park created the opportunity for the midfielder.
Sørensen played a short corner to Manchester City loanee, Jess Park, who sprinted across the right wing and fired a cross into the box. The ball connected with the head of Karen Holmgaard, her effort sent straight past Mackenzie Arnold gaining Everton the advantage.
Megan Finnigan capitalised on a deft corner routine in the 12th minute, giving Everton time to double their lead before West Ham had a chance to settle in.
At the corner flag, Sørensen stepped up and perfectly delivered the ball for Finnigan, who rose highest and headed in a second goal for the blues.
The Toffees had the better opportunities overall, and in a hectic first half, defender Gabby George had a shot blocked by Grace Fisk after scuffing an effort wide while being pressured by Kate Longhurst.
Everton maintained their lead throughout the second half, and when replacement Aggie Beever-Jones scored an outstanding third goal, it made for a terrible day for West Ham.
The English forward was located in the middle of the field by Aurora Galli, evoking memories of Gabby George’s goal from a week before. She took a yard of room before launching the ball high into the top corner. Gaining her first goal in the English top division.
Manchester United loanee goalkeeper, Emily Ramsey, was challenged on set pieces but was unfazed by the test. She made some impressive saves towards the end of the 90 minutes to secure a clean sheet.
The win earned Brian Sørensen’s team their third consecutive Women’s Super League victory, the first time Everton had done so since October 2020.
Player of the match for me has to be Megan Finnigan, one of the best overall performances from a defender I’ve seen. She made some crucial blocks, won duals in the air and to get the second goal as well, an overall phenomenal performance.
Everton Women will hope to continue their winning streak in their first FA Cup match of the season when they face Birmingham City at home on the 29th of January. Kick off is at 1pm.
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