Everton Women started 2023 with an impressive 3-2 victory over Reading in the WSL.
The blues got their first goal inside the opening 10 minutes. Manchester City loanee, Jess Park, displayed some outstanding footwork before passing the ball to Captain Gabby George on the left side of the pitch.
Katja Snoeijs skilfully converted a low cross from Gabby George at the near post, giving Everton the lead and getting her first goal on home soil.
With the blues gaining confidence and momentum, they earned their second just after the 30 minute mark.
A superb move that started at Jess Park’s feet outfoxed Reading’s midfield near the centre circle and propelled Everton forward. Nicoline Sørensen, who was waiting patiently moved the ball on to Jess Park once more on the edge of the box. Jess Park finished off the great move with a finish into the right hand side of the net after charging into the box at speed. It was the youngster’s maiden goal at Walton Hall Park and her fifth WSL goal in royal blue.
In the 60th minute, Justine Vanhaevermaet pulled Reading back in to the game when she headed the ball in past Emily Ramsey.
Gabby George, the captain for the day, immediately responded for Everton with a very exceptional moment. The defender forced Everton forward immediately after the Reading goal. George ghosted past several Reading players before unleashing a superb shot from distance into the top corner before the goalkeeper even knew what happened.
Seven minutes later, the visitors gained a second. Cooper met a free kick that was delivered into the Toffee’s penalty area and advanced it past Ramsey.
The home team appeared to be in control in what could have been a tense last few minutes and a fourth goal for the Toffees might have been possible thanks to chances from debutante Sara Holmgaard, Aggie Beever-Jones, and Christiansen, but it was not to be on the day.
Player of the match for me has to be either Gabby George or Rikke Sevecke. Gabby played exceptionally and her goal was phenomenal. Rikke is solid at the back and made some crucial blocks that denied Reading from getting anything from the game.
Hanna Bennison played really well too and very impressed with Sara Holmgaard who returned from her loan spell at Fortuna Hjørring and made her debut against Reading. All in all, a brilliant team performance that deserved more goals.
Everton Women are back in action on Sunday the 22nd of January when they play West Ham in the WSL at Walton Hall Park. Kick off is at 1pm.
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