WSL: Everton earn first points of the season with win over Birmingham | OneFootball

With the return of the Women’s Super League following the international break, Everton were looking to secure their first win as they welcomed Birmingham to Walton Hall Park.

Both teams had failed to take any of the points from their opening two matches, so it was all to play for on Merseyside.

Starting XIs

Everton

Maciver; Maier, Björn, George, Turner (c), Dali, Christiansen, Galli, Emslie, Clinton, Duggan

Birmingham

Ramsey; Scott, Quinn (c), Lawley, Holloway, Quinn, Robertson, Finn, Pennock, Ewens, Sarri

How it went

German international Leonie Maier opened her account for her new side within just 13 minutes. The No. 21 managed to tap in a rebound from a Grace Clinton shot to put the Toffees ahead.

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The game was brought level when new Birmingham signing Jade Pennock scored the Blues’ first goal of the season in the 32nd minute.

With Birmingham looking a renewed side following the goal, Everton seemed to be on the back foot at times in the period before half time.

During the second half however, the Toffees seemed to find their rhythm once more. The home side put Emily Ramsey under ever increasing pressure as the clock ticked down.

In the 73rd minute, Olympic silver medal winner Hanna Bennison doubled the hosts’ lead with a stunning shot from just outside of the area.

Rikke Sevecke then made it three for Everton as she headed in an Izzy Christiansen corner.

All four goal-scorers of the afternoon scored their first ever goal for their respective clubs.

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Stand out player

As well as assisting Everton’s third goal, Izzy Christiansen once again proved herself to be a key player for her side throughout the game. With Birmingham’s defence holding a low block against Everton’s persistent press, Christiansen’s ability to find space in a crowded penalty area offered her side a consistent goal scoring opportunity.

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