Manchester United Women faced a frustrating afternoon at Chigwell Construction Stadium on Saturday, April 19, 2025, as they were held to a goalless draw by West Ham United in the Women's Super League. This outcome not only extinguished any lingering hopes of a title challenge but also left United in third place, five points adrift of league leaders Chelsea and three points behind second-placed Arsenal, albeit with a game in hand.
The match was marked by a lack of clear-cut chances, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm. Celin Bizet came closest for United, striking the woodwork with a powerful shot just before the 20-minute mark, while Grace Clinton also had a long-range effort that flew over the bar. Despite some promising play, United's attack seemed disjointed, and they were unable to break down a resolute West Ham defense.
West Ham started the match brightly, applying early pressure on the United goal. Eva Nystrom had the first opportunity, heading wide from a set piece. However, as the game progressed, United began to assert themselves, with Bizet's strike rattling the crossbar serving as a reminder of their attacking potential. United remained patient and composed, but they struggled to convert possession into meaningful chances.
Marc Skinner, the United head coach, had warned his team to resist complacency ahead of the match, emphasizing the importance of focusing on each game as they approached the end of the season. "West Ham is really important and I’m not interested in the FA Cup final right now, I’m really not," Skinner stated prior to the match. He acknowledged West Ham's recent form, which included a commendable 2-2 draw against Chelsea, and highlighted the need for his players to be fully engaged.
After the halftime break, United continued to push for a winner, with Elisabeth Terland's header being saved by West Ham goalkeeper Kinga Szemik. The second half saw West Ham also create opportunities, but Phallon Tullis-Joyce in the United goal was equal to the task, comfortably dealing with the threats posed by the hosts.
Despite introducing fresh legs in the form of substitutes, including Melvine Malard, United struggled to find their footing in front of goal. The visitors' attempts to secure a late winner were thwarted by a well-organized West Ham side, which managed to hold on for a point. The result leaves Manchester United in a precarious position as they aim for Champions League qualification, sitting eight points ahead of Manchester City with three matches remaining.
In other Women's Super League action on the same day, Liverpool secured a vital 2-1 victory over Brighton at the American Express Stadium, climbing above their opponents in the league standings. Olivia Smith opened the scoring for Liverpool within two minutes, and Leanne Kiernan doubled their lead just before halftime. Brighton fought back after the break with a goal from Michelle Agyemang but could not find an equalizer.
As the season approaches its climax, Manchester United will need to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their upcoming matches, including a crucial encounter against league leaders Chelsea on April 30, 2025. The pressure is on for Skinner's side to deliver as they chase a Champions League spot, and the disappointment of the draw against West Ham will likely serve as a motivating factor moving forward.
With the title race heating up and teams jostling for position, every point will be crucial in the final weeks of the season. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Manchester United can bounce back and keep their Champions League hopes alive.
