Karen Holmgaard earned Everton a deserved point against Manchester City at the Joie Stadium in the WSL.
The hosts struck first as Kerstin Casparij bundled Lily Murphy’s downward header across the line.
But the Toffees hit back in the 33rd minute, entering the break on level terms thanks to a link-up from the Holmgaard twins, ending in a thumping header.
City began the contest on the front foot, as Jess Park had a clear opportunity to set the teams apart early on. Kerolin Nicoli produced a threatening cutback, spotting Park in a perfect position, but the England international struggled to generate power and her shot was well blocked by Elise Stenevik, on her 50th appearance for the Blues.
This pressure continued, forcing Emily Ramsey into an uncomfortable position as Nicoli rounded her and broke into the area. The Brazilian seemed destined to score, but Martina Fernandez raced back and produced a clean tackle to dispossess her, a standout moment in what proved to be an exceptional display from the Everton loanee.
Nicoli remained a persistent threat, with her flighted cross leading to Casparij tapping home in the 13th minute. Murphy was first to connect with the delivery, but it was the Dutch International who applied the decisive touch to take it beyond Ramsey.
The Toffees, who were without key striker Kelly Gago, slowly grew into the game, battling hard against a tough opposition.
Their determination was rewarded in the 33rd minute, as K. Holmgaard restored parity for the Blues after meeting a trademark Sarah Holmgaard delivery. The pinpoint cross flew straight to her twin sister, who rose highest with a commanding header that soared past Kiera Keating.
Coming on as a half-time substitute, Katja Snoeijs immediately showed the drive present throughout the side, making a charging run towards the area, though nothing materialised from it.
Lily Murphy tried her luck from 25 yards out, but it was an easy save for Ramsey.
History almost repeated itself midway through the second period, as the Holmgaard’s combined once more, though this time Karen’s header sailed narrowly over the crossbar.
In her first start of the WSL season, Ramsey did well to deny City a winner, with her rapid reactions seeing her tip Nicoli’s powerful strike over the bar with 12 minutes remaining.
The Toffees defended brilliantly in the closing stages, frustrating the hosts who failed to capitalise on their rivals Manchester United dropping points at the weekend in the race for Champions League qualification.
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