Marie Hobinger was the hero for Liverpool as her stoppage-time penalty sealed a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in a five-goal Women’s Super League (WSL) clash. The Austrian midfielder’s second goal of the match, a calmly taken penalty, handed the Reds their first league win of the season in thrilling fashion.
Liverpool had taken the lead early on through Cornelia Kapocs, but the game saw multiple twists and turns before Hobinger’s cool finish from the spot ensured the three points for Matt Beard’s side. Tottenham, meanwhile, suffered their first WSL defeat of the season despite a spirited performance.
Early Lead for Liverpool
Liverpool came out of the blocks with energy and intent, and it didn’t take long for them to find the breakthrough. Just ten minutes into the match, Cornelia Kapocs produced a moment of brilliance, launching a spectacular strike from outside the box that gave Tottenham goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer no chance. The goal gave Liverpool the perfect start, and they looked to build on their early momentum.
Tottenham struggled to contain Liverpool’s midfield pressure in the opening exchanges, with Hobinger and Kapocs dictating the tempo. The Reds created several chances, but Spencer stood firm between the posts to deny further damage. However, Tottenham eventually found their feet as the half progressed.
Tottenham’s Resilience Pays Off
Tottenham clawed their way back into the game with increased possession, and their efforts were rewarded when they found an equalizer in the 34th minute. A dangerous cross into the box led to Liverpool’s Taylor Hinds inadvertently turning the ball into her own net, leveling the score at 1-1.
The own goal shifted the momentum, and Spurs grew in confidence as they pushed for a second before the break. Liverpool, however, managed to keep the scoreline level going into halftime, setting the stage for a gripping second half.
Hobinger’s Stunning Free-Kick Puts Liverpool Ahead
After a tense and evenly matched start to the second half, it was once again Marie Hobinger who made the difference for Liverpool. In the 63rd minute, the Austrian midfielder stepped up to take a free-kick from just outside the area and curled a sublime effort into the top corner, leaving Spencer rooted to the spot. The Reds were back in front, and the quality of Hobinger’s strike highlighted her importance to the team.
Liverpool pressed for a third to try and put the game beyond Tottenham’s reach, but Spurs refused to give in. The visitors showed resilience, fighting back with a renewed sense of urgency as they searched for another equalizer.
Late Drama as Hunt Levels for Spurs
Tottenham’s persistence paid off in the 83rd minute, when Ashleigh Neville, who had been influential throughout the game, delivered a dangerous cross from the right-hand side. Clare Hunt met the ball with precision, directing her header into the back of the net to make it 2-2.
With just minutes left on the clock, it looked as though Tottenham had secured a hard-fought point. Both sides were battling hard in the closing stages, and the match seemed destined to end in a draw.
Hobinger’s Last-Minute Penalty Wins It for Liverpool
As stoppage time ticked on, Liverpool mounted one final attack. Sophie Roman Haug drove into the Tottenham box, and as she attempted to cut inside, she was brought down by Neville. The referee pointed to the spot, sparking protests from the Tottenham players, but the decision stood.
Marie Hobinger, already having a superb game, stepped up to take the crucial penalty. With the pressure on, she remained composed and slotted the ball past Spencer’s outstretched arm to secure Liverpool’s first WSL victory of the season. The final whistle blew shortly after, confirming a 3-2 win for the Reds in a match that will be remembered for its excitement and drama.
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