Casey Stoney’s Red Devils got their 2020/21 Women’s Super League campaign underway with a deserved point against reigning champions Chelsea.
United started quite well by enjoying much of the possession, however it wasn’t long before the Blues struck. After creating the majority of the chances, Chelsea found themselves 1-0 up through fine effort by Sam Kerr.
The visitors had a flurry of opportunities in both halves, with Kerr especially looking sharp. Her goal certainly redeemed her struggle in the Community Shield last month.
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With a little more than 10 minutes left to secure a point against the title-holders, the game looked all but wrapped up. Luckily for United, a spark of electricity was conjured.
Embed from Getty ImagesWinger Leah Galton tapped home an equaliser to secure a valiant point for the Red Devils. Her late goal snubbed Chelsea from a dream start to the campaign.
Against a team to have only lost twice in 57 WSL fixtures, Stoney’s squad looked assured at the back. New defensive recruit Ona Batlle put in a solid shift across at full-back on her debut.
A Sign of Things to Come for United
After a long six months out of action, the Red Devils plucked a solid result from their first match back at LSV. They showcased their ability against the side to beat this season.
Their character to claw back a point after conceding early on could be a sign of things to come.
The introduction of Jackie Groenen was a huge lift for United. She made an instant impact with an attempt whistling wide of the goal. Stoney must consider starting the Dutch international in order to boost creativity in the engine room.
Embed from Getty ImagesThis results puts United in good stead to challenge for the top four this term. With courageous performances like these and grabbing a valuable point it can only serve as a very positive omen for the future.
United’s first point against the ‘WSL Big Three’ can only be seen as a stepping stone towards the great potential of this team. We could have witnessed the making of the future WSL title challengers.
