‘In this moment, Manchester is Red’ – Skinner reflects on Manchester United’s derby day victory | OneFootball

Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner was pleased with his side’s performance as they defeated Manchester City 4-2 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday evening.

Ella Toone helped herself to a hat-trick while Leah Galton was also on target as The Red Devils recorded their first-ever away win over their neighbours.

When speaking to the media after the match, Manchester United boss Skinner admitted that he was pleased with his side’s performance but was fair in his overall assessment of the contest.

“I am really happy,” Skinner said. “It’s a really weird position. I’m happy with the way that the players have performed and the energy they gave but they left clear-cut chances. I think the game will suggest we had 29% possession, but it really was a lot in Man City. You know they play and it’s their style, so I think it was a mix of styles, they clashed tonight but I think we should have scored five.”

Manchester United were backed by a large away support and Skinner made it clear that the travelling fans should enjoy the moment.

He said “I remember this stadium for the way our fans travel and in this moment, Manchester is Red, so I want to make sure that they celebrate because that’s what it’s about, it’s about enjoying the moment.”

Hat-trick heroine Toone has had a difficult few months with the loss of her father in September being followed by a calf injury. Skinner was delighted to see the player back enjoying her football.

He said “We all know what she’s been through and what’s more important right now is that Ella Toone for Manchester United and England enjoys football, that’s really important. She put a great shift in. I just want her to love football again and she’s in a really good space to do that.”

Manchester United face Manchester City once again when the two clubs contest a Subway Women’s League Cup quarter-final tie at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday night.