Man United carry on impressive start to WSL season

Everton 1 - 4 Manchester United

United spoiled Everton’s first WSL match at their new stadium, extending their unbeaten start to the season with a hard-fought victory.

Author | Olivia T

Stadium | Hill Dickinson Stadium

Views from around the ground

Marc Skinner’s side, who have now won four and drawn two of their opening six WSL games, were forced to come from behind in front of a crowd of 18,154.

Honoka Hayashi gave Everton the lead against the run of play, reacting quickest to Phallon Tullis-Joyce’s fumbled clearance from a corner. It was a landmark moment, the club’s first WSL goal at their new home on Bramley-Moore Dock, and it caught many in the ground by surprise.

United, dominant throughout and creating a string of chances, finally broke through in the 62nd minute when Melvine Malard equalised. The France international burst clear one-on-one with goalkeeper Emily Ramsey and calmly slotted home the rebound after her initial effort had been saved.

The result keeps United in the chase for top spot, narrowing the gap on leaders Chelsea to two points, while Everton remain without a home victory this season and sit 10th in the table.

Park and Zigiotti turn the tide for United

It was a frustrating first half for Manchester United, who once again found themselves hindered by a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal, an issue that has resurfaced many times in recent seasons.

Malard, Naalsund and Fridolina Rolfo all went close but failed to convert, while Ella Toone struggled to make an impact from midfield. Everton lacked the quality to take advantage and were fortunate that United’s substitutes did not immediately change the rhythm of the game after the break.

The introductions of Jade Park and Julia Zigiotti proved decisive. Park brought energy and confidence, testing the goalkeeper from range, while Zigiotti’s composure and assured passing helped United regain control.

With the added demands of Champions League football, United’s limited squad depth remains a concern. Only two changes were made from the side that beat Valerenga in midweek, and that fatigue showed in the opening period. Yet the manner of their recovery and the resilience to grind out victory will reassure Marc Skinner as his side continue their pursuit of the title.