Everton put in a lot of effort and showed great fortitude as they drew 0-0 against top of the table Manchester United to extend their Women’s Super League unbeaten streak to four games.
For the full 90 minutes, Everton’s backline had to play at its peak, putting up some valiant defending as Marc Skinner’s team pressed their opponents. Courtney Brosnan, who perhaps had her best performance of the season, provided support for the Toffees’ back line with equal amounts of tenacity and goalkeeping prowess.
Aggie Beever-Jones, Nathalie Bjorn and Aurora Galli were all inserted into the starting lineup as changes from the Birmingham City game by manager Brian Sørensen. While Manchester United loanee, Emily Ramsey was ineligible to play against her parent club, was replaced by Courtney Brosnan.
Everton initially had the first chance in a quick fire start, after a Nicoline Sørensen corner found Rikke Sevecke, who narrowly missed the target, alerting Manchester United that they would be prepared for a battle.
Despite this, Manchester United had a lot of ball control and responded quickly to off-ball pressure from the Blues.
The Toffees continued to provide a threat out wide by attempting to evade a high United defensive line. Nicoline Sørensen’s powerful run down the right shortly before the halfway point served as an illustration of this. Her teasing pass almost reached an eager Everton runner before being cleared by United’s back line.
Possibly the best attempt of the half came when Lucia Garcia’s strong attempt struck the woodwork following a quick breakaway attack by Manchester United.
United continued to explore and smacked the post once more. This time it was Alessia Russo who came within inches of giving the home team the lead after Courtney Brosnan made an incredible double save.
Much of the same was seen at the opening of the second half, United making their intentions clear almost straight away. This time, Ella Toone was the one to come close to scoring from a great opportunity for Manchester United.
Brian Sørensen saw a need for fresh impetus with Clare Wheeler, Lucy Hope, and Hanna Bennison all coming on as substitutes. Izzy Christiansen was also brought in by the manager to take Karen Homgaard’s position 12 minutes later.
Everton put forth a lot of effort, with the fresh legs reinvigorating the side. A quality Manchester United attack, though, continued to put pressure on the team.
Jess Park created the finest opportunity for Everton during the contest. After some confusion in the United defence, she received possession of the ball, but despite getting around the goalkeeper, she was unable to put her effort into the back of the net.
Late in the game, United launched another assault, and Gabby George had to make a wonderful, sweeping tackle to stop former Everton player, Nikita Parris from breaking through on goal.
Everton’s admirable defensive performance throughout the course of the entire 90 minutes gives the Toffees a valuable and impressive point away from home that keeps Everton in fifth place in the WSL and knocks United off the top spot.
Player of the match for me has to be Courtney Brosnan, solid in goal, brilliant dealing with crosses and prevented us from conceding on a few occasions with fine saves. A special mention is needed for the whole team and in particular Katja Snoeijs for her tireless running and work ethic in leading from the front.
With the forthcoming International break, Everton Women’s next game is on the 5th of Match at home to Aston Villa in the WSL. Kick off is at 1pm.
News out today as well, we are heading to Goodison Park for the Merseyside Derby!
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