Manchester City Women secured a convincing 4-0 victory against Liverpool Women on February 17, 2024, at Joie Stadium, marking a much-needed boost for the team as they strive for Champions League qualification.
The star of the match was undoubtedly Khadija Shaw, who scored two goals after returning from injury. With her first goal coming just before the halftime mark, Shaw took full advantage of Mary Fowler's pinpoint pass, turning sharply and finishing with precision across the Liverpool keeper, Teagan Micah. Shaw’s bold black power salute post-goal was not only a celebration of her return to the field but also a powerful statement against the racist abuse she endured following City’s earlier match against Arsenal.
After Shaw’s initial strike, City continued pressing. They found the net again as Shaw scored her second just two minutes before the break, expertly controlling Fowler’s cross and firing it home with a well-placed volley. At halftime, Manchester City had set the tone for what would become their third consecutive victory across all competitions, reaffirming their goal-scoring prowess.
Following the break, City remained aggressive, and Jill Roord made her mark on the game shortly after the hour mark. The Dutch midfielder expertly slashed the ball home after her initial strike was blocked, pushing the score to 3-0 and effectively sealing the match for City.
With ten minutes remaining, Gracie Prior capped off the scoring with her first-ever goal for Manchester City Women. What appeared to be a cross from the right unexpectedly curled over Micah and settled in the top corner of the net, providing Prior with a memorable moment on her debut WSL start.
Manager Gareth Taylor praised his team's execution of their game plan, noting, "The girls delivered the game plan really well. We knew Liverpool would be aggressive and they had some moments, probably more than we would like..." This statement highlighted the balance City had to strike between attacking play and defending against Liverpool’s occasional threats.
Despite facing challenges early on, with Liverpool creating some significant chances—including Leanne Kiernan hitting the side netting—City’s defense held firm. Player of the Match, Jill Roord, reflected on the squad’s determined spirit, crediting their preparation and teamwork. "We connected really well and made the most of our chances. It helps when you're sharing the field with players like Khadija and Mary, who are so talented and driven," she noted.
Khadija Shaw celebrated her return with clear satisfaction, stating, "Definitely good to get back on the scoresheet after a difficult couple of days. The team did well, and I’m happy to keep scoring. Mary has been fantastic on the wing, and we’ve developed quite the connection this season." Shaw’s contributions extend beyond her goal tally; she has evolved as one of the league's top scorers this season.
Manchester City's win now places them firmly within reach of the Champions League spots, trailing only two points behind the third-placed Arsenal after the match, maintaining their momentum as they look to push higher up the WSL table.
Conversely, this loss leaves Liverpool languishing at seventh position, raising concerns about their consistency and ability to avoid the relegation zone—currently nine points above it.
This performance serves not only as victory but also as affirmation of City’s continued ascent within the Women's Super League, proving they are serious contenders for the top spots. With the international break approaching, focus will now turn to upcoming fixtures, where City hopes to build on this success and gain more ground.
Looking forward, the squad's chemistry appears strong, with players like Mary Fowler breaking records for assists and partnering effectively with central figures like Shaw. All eyes will again be on them as they prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur next, aiming for their next triumph and keeping their eyes firmly set on the league title.