Everton triumphs over Brighton with late Bennison goal

Everton's Elise Stenevik embraces Hanna Bennison.
Everton's Elise Stenevik embraces Hanna Bennison after Bennison's late goal against Brighton on May 21, 2023. (Photo by Everton Women FC)

As the penultimate weekend of the WSL finally got underway, Everton welcomed Brighton to Walton Hall Park. Both sides entered today’s match with their future in the top flight guaranteed.

The Seagulls went into the weekend six points clear of bottom-placed Reading with a game in hand. In April, the previous meeting between the two teams saw Brighton take all three points from a five-goal thriller.

Starting XIs

Everton: Ramsey; Veje, Bjorn, Wheeler, Bennison, Sorensen, Graham, Galli, S. Holmgaard, Snoeijs, K. Holmgaard.

Brighton: Walsh; Pattinson, Bergsvand, Sarri, Connolly, Olme, Terland, Kullberg, Carter, Morse, Robinson.

How it went

From the off, Everton were in control of the tie. The hosts’ dominance throughout the opening half of the tie was broken up by brief spells of control from their opposition. Thus, it came as no shock when the home side found the opening goal of the tie.

Katja Snoeijs’ 32nd-minute goal saw the No.25 convert Karen Holmgaards assist. Following the goal, however, there was a clear shift in the game’s momentum. Less than 15 minutes after conceding, Brighton were back level. Katie Robinson’s injury-time goal saw the teams level at the break.

The second half brought more dominance from Everton. But, despite several good chances, the Toffees could not find their second of the afternoon. Just as it seemed that the match would finish with the points shared, Everton were able to bag a last-minute goal to see them secure the victory. Hanna Bennison’s injury-time goal meant the Toffees completed the afternoon on 30 points.

Up Next

Everton will play their final game of the season away to Manchester City. Meanwhile, Brighton will wrap up their campaign with a home tie against Leicester.

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