Everton stunned Manchester City with a historic 2-1 victory on December 15, 2024, at Walton Hall Park, achieving their first-ever win over the title challengers in the Women’s Super League (WSL). The result not only marked a significant milestone for the Toffees but also highlighted City's inability to capitalize on Chelsea's previous draw.
After Chelsea failed to secure three points against Leicester City, Manchester City had the opportunity to close the gap at the top of the table. Yet, Everton took full advantage, surprising many with their tactical discipline and explosive first half.
The match began with Everton maintaining tight defenses, but it was the 31st minute when Lucy Hope broke the deadlock. The goal came from a well-executed corner, as Hope powered home a header past City’s goalkeeper, Khiara Keaking, following an exquisite service from Sara Holmgaard. Just eight minutes later, the Toffees doubled their lead when Honoka Hayashi found space at the edge of the box and drilled a low shot past Keaking.
A late consolation was awarded to City when Yui Hasegawa was fouled, resulting in a penalty. Mary Fowler stepped up and confidently slotted home the kick, narrowing Everton's lead to 2-1 with mere minutes to play. Despite this late surge, Everton remained resilient, holding onto their historic victory.
“It is disappointing. We were a bit flat and looked like a team who had played a few games recently. We didn't seem to have a lot of energy,” said Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor after the match. His words echoed the struggles City faced, particularly without several key players including top scorer Khadija Shaw and captain Alex Greenwood, who was stretchered off earlier in the week. Taylor expressed concern not only for the current performance but also for the fitness of players as they head for their midseason break.
The defeat leaves Manchester City six points behind leaders Chelsea, complicates their title ambitions, and adds pressure as they ready for their upcoming Champions League clash against Barcelona. Everton, on the other hand, will take great confidence from this match. Having only secured their second league victory of the season, this win will invigorate their campaign as they aim to move up the table.
This matchup was the 26th meeting between the two clubs, and Everton's unwavering determination paid off. Their performance was tactical, allowing them to absorb pressure and strike when it mattered most. With the defending champions Chelsea leading the WSL standings, the path forward for City has grown steeper.
The atmosphere at Walton Hall Park was electric, with the home fans celebrating not just the win but the historic achievements of their team. Everton’s players celebrated on the pitch as they embraced the significance of their accomplishment, knowing they had just reversed their long-standing struggles against one of the league’s strongest sides.
Looking forward, both teams will shift their focus, with Manchester City eager to recover their injured talents and aim for redemption, and Everton seeking to build on their newfound momentum as they prepare for future challenges. The match not only reshaped the current table but also showcased the unpredictable nature of women's football, proving once again why every game can turn the tide.
