United boost Champions League hopes after comfortable WSL win

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Manchester United 2 - 0 Everton

Manchester United took a step closer to securing Champions League football next season with a composed victory over Everton.

Author - Olivia T

Stadium - Leigh Sports Village

Across Europe - WSL ~ United v Everton

Dominique Janssen capitalised on a costly error from Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan to open the scoring midway through the first half, before Grace Clinton produced a moment of brilliance shortly after the break to double United’s lead.

Despite never having beaten United in the Women’s Super League, Everton made a bright start under Brian Sorensen. They thought they had an early breakthrough when Katja Snoeijs found the net inside two minutes, but referee Phoebe Cross ruled it out for handball following a goalmouth scramble.

The game’s momentum was disrupted by a lengthy injury stoppage for United’s Jayde Riviere, though Everton still looked lively. Kelly Gago forced Phallon Tullis-Joyce into a sharp save from a tight angle, but their good work was undone in the 22nd minute. Brosnan fumbled what should have been a routine catch from a free-kick, allowing Janssen to slot the ball into an empty net.

United grew into the game from that point, twice going close in first-half stoppage time. Celin Bizet tested Brosnan with a low drive before Maya Le Tissier rattled the crossbar with a long-range strike.

READ MORE: Manchester United news and stories

READ MORE: The latest match reports from Everton

Just 90 seconds into the second half, Clinton sealed the result with a superb flick into the bottom corner from Leah Galton’s low cross—her second goal of the season against her former club.

United controlled proceedings from then on, with Melvine Malard denied a third by a brilliant Brosnan save. However, injuries to Bizet and Galton may give manager Marc Skinner some concerns.

The win briefly lifted United into second place before Arsenal’s victory over Crystal Palace later in the day. Nevertheless, they remain in control of their Champions League destiny, needing just two wins from their final four games to guarantee a top-three finish.

Location: Manchester, UK

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