Manchester United manager Marc Skinner expects a “big reaction” from Everton following their 4-0 defeat to Brighton last week.
He said: “I have always admired how Brian’s [Sørensen] teams build in the first phase because they try and draw you into traps to be able to spring those traps. It’s about when to jump those and when to be patient. It’s not always about having the ball in these games, it’s about utilising the space when you get it and how you use it.
“I’d expect a big reaction from Everton. When I watched the game [against Brighton], I actually felt that for large parts, they were in the game. They maybe could have had a penalty before Brighton got theirs. There were factors that affected them but I’d expect them to come out and give absolutely everything as they always do.”
It has been a tight contest between these two teams so far. It looked as though the score would remain goalless at the break following huge missed chances from Park and Kirby, but Shaw popped up at the perfect moment to give City an important lead.
I wouldn’t rule Brighton out though, they are still well and truly in this game.
On the brink of half-time, Shaw breaks the deadlock with a tap-in!
Hemp puts the ball through to Casparij on the left, who squares it across goal and straight to Shaw in the six-yard box. All the striker has to do is tap it past Baggaley and into the net.
Manchester City lead!
Khadija Shaw celebrates scoring Manchester City’s first goal against Brighton Photograph: Nigel French/PA
Manchester United starting XI: Phallon Tullis-Joyce; Maya Le Tissier (C), Millie Turner, Dominique Janssen, Jayde Riviere; Lisa Naalsund, Grace Clinton, Ella Toone; Leah Galton, Elisabeth Terland, Geyse.
Manchester City are currently hosting Brighton at the Joie Stadium. The deadlock is yet to be broken at the 30-minute mark, with both teams having their chances.
I can’t say it’s been the most exciting half of football so far, but there’s still plenty of time to go.
Hello, good afternoon and welcome to another clockwatch. We have five WSL fixtures to look forward to this afternoon, with the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham all in action. Aston Villa, West Ham and Everton will be looking to pick up their first points of the campaign today, but all three clubs face a challenging afternoon.
The table could look very different by the end of play this evening. I’ll be keeping you updated every step of the way. Stick with me!
