It’s a battle of the north as Everton host Manchester United on Sunday at Walton Hall Park in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League.
Casey Stoney’s side will be looking to remain second place in the table after a comfortable 2-0 win against Birmingham City last week, responding well to their first league defeat of the season to top spot team Chelsea.
As well as a 4-0 win in their most recent match against Bristol City, Everton will be on a high from the success of their January transfer window – signing the likes of social star Alisha Lehmann and former Blue Jill Scott, adding to an already strong squad who’ve impressed this season.
Ones to watch: Everton
Clinical in front of goal and a driving force from midfield, Izzy Christiansen has been the centre of success for Everton this season. Her deadly combination that is her low centre of gravity and bursts of pace are enough to outsmart any opposing player. With the addition of fellow Lioness Jill Scott to the side, this will give Christiansen more freedom to go forward to create those vital chances she’s famous for. Two experienced minds of top internationals are bound to be a duet of solidarity in the Toffee’s engine room.
Ones to watch: Manchester United
On a streak of sensational form, Leah Galton will be looking to add to her growing tally of goals this season on Sunday. The left foot of the winger is a lethal tool often catching out defenders and goalkeepers alike, as shown against the Robins earlier in December. Grabbing Player of the Month for that very month, the 26-year-old has proven herself as a vital component to the success of the Reds. Whilst having shooting boots in her locker, her service into the likes of Lauren James proves to be just as crucial. The youngster will also be seeking a chance to cement her name on the team-sheet.
Previous result
The magic of Galton and Ella Toone was enough to grab all three points in the two sides’ last WSL meeting. Everton fought a hard battle throughout but fell to a 3-2 defeat in the end.
A match full of drama and drive, Willie Kirk’s side had now lost all four league matches against United. Hoping to halt that run, Everton will have to leave everything on the grass of Walton Hall Park to come away winners.
The match kicks off at 2:30 pm GMT and will be available to watch on BT Sport for all UK viewers.
