Leicester faced Manchester City for a place in the quarter-final of the Continental Cup on Wednesday night.
With Leicester sitting bottom of the Women’s Super League, no one could fault Lydia Bedford’s decision to name a side almost entirely changed from the 11 that started against Reading at the weekend.
Gareth Taylor, however, was evidently looking to secure the win that would see his team progress. The two sides have met twice this season, with Man City securing victory on both occasions.
Starting XIs
Leicester
Harris; De Graaf, Brougham, Brown, Purfield, Barker (c), Zajmi, Robinson, Baker, Grant, Camwell
Manchester City
Kheating; Bronze, Houghton (c), Greenwood, Stanway, Walsh, Losada, Angeldahl, Park, Hemp, White
How it went
Following their resounding victory over Brighton, City were clearly keen to continue their strong run of form. Just nine minutes in, Ellen White found the back of the net as she nodded in a Jess Park cross.
With Leicester needing to win by nine clear goals, the early start from the visitors placed their hosts under immediate pressure.
Within just 16 minutes, however, the game seemed entirely out of reach of the Foxes. Two quick goals from Lauren Hemp and Georgia Stanway saw Leicester trailing 3-0.
With Park providing the assists for the Sky Blues’ second and third goals, the visitors seemed too much for a Leicester squad featuring five players making their debut.
In the 34th minute, Hemp bagged her brace as she headed the ball clear of Sophie Harris’ reach.
The second half saw Vicky Losada net City’s fifth of the evening with a rocket of a shot from 30 yards out.
Despite the scoreline, Leicester managed to place Khiara Kheating, making her debut for Manchester City, under pressure as the second half drew to a close. The 17-year-old was forced to make several key saves and interceptions as Leicester pushed for a consolation goal.
Embed from Getty ImagesStand out player
Despite not finding the back of the Leicester net herself, Jess Park was once again magnificent for Manchester City. The forward’s perfectly weighted crosses and intelligence in front of goal set up the first three goals as well as providing countless other opportunities both for herself and her teammates.
Despite still being one of the youngest players within Taylor’s side, the No.16 has already become a firm fan favourite.
