Everton Women put on a dominant display against Crystal Palace, securing a convincing 3-0 victory in the Women’s Super League (WSL). The win not only provided a crucial three points for Brian Sorensen’s side but also deepened the struggles of Crystal Palace, who remain rooted at the bottom of the WSL table.
This result showcased Everton’s growing form under Sorensen, while highlighting Palace’s ongoing challenges in their debut WSL season. With the league season entering a critical phase, this victory could prove vital for Everton’s ambitions, while Palace faces an uphill battle to secure survival.
Everton Takes Control Early
From the opening whistle, Everton asserted their dominance, immediately pressing Crystal Palace high up the pitch. Sorensen’s tactics were clear: aggressive attacking play combined with controlled possession.
Everton nearly opened the scoring in the 7th minute when Katja Snoeijs found herself in space inside the penalty box, but her shot was well blocked by Palace’s defensive wall. However, Palace’s resistance didn’t last long.
In the 14th minute, Sara Holmgaard broke the deadlock. The Danish international made a brilliant overlapping run from left-back, received a pinpoint pass from Justine Vanhaevermaet, and slotted the ball past Palace goalkeeper Demi Lambourne.
Crystal Palace struggled to respond. Their midfield, led by Coral-Jade Haines and Molly-Mae Sharpe, was often overrun by Everton’s high press. Palace’s attacking duo of Elise Hughes and Shanade Hopcroft found it difficult to break through Everton’s well-organized defense, led by Megan Finnigan.
Everton doubled their lead in the 32nd minute through Martina Piemonte. The Italian forward capitalized on a loose ball inside the box after a defensive mishap from Palace, coolly finishing past Lambourne to put Everton in a commanding position.
Palace’s best chance of the half came in the 38th minute when Hughes managed to get a shot off from the edge of the area, but Courtney Brosnan in the Everton goal made a comfortable save.
At halftime, Everton led 2-0, and it was clear that Sorensen’s tactical approach was paying off.
Everton Secures the Win with Dominant Play
Crystal Palace started the second half with more intensity, attempting to push Everton back. However, their lack of cutting edge in the final third continued to be a major issue.
Everton, on the other hand, maintained their composure and waited for the right moment to strike again. That moment came in the 57th minute when Nathalie Björn added a third goal. The Swedish defender rose highest to meet a Vanhaevermaet corner, powering her header into the back of the net.
The goal effectively sealed the game for Everton, as Palace looked deflated after conceding yet again.
Despite their best efforts, Palace failed to create any significant chances. Their attack lacked cohesion, with misplaced passes and poor finishing preventing them from testing Brosnan. Everton, meanwhile, controlled possession and managed the game professionally in the final half-hour, ensuring there were no unnecessary risks.
Key Takeaways from the Match
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Everton’s Tactical Brilliance
Brian Sorensen’s tactical setup was instrumental in this victory. Everton pressed high, exploited the wings effectively, and remained solid defensively. Players like Holmgaard and Vanhaevermaet played pivotal roles in linking defense to attack.
Piemonte’s goal was a direct result of Everton’s pressing strategy, and Björn’s header showed their effectiveness in set-piece situations.
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Crystal Palace’s Struggles Continue
This result leaves Palace at the bottom of the WSL standings, and their lack of attacking threat remains a huge concern. Despite some promising play in midfield, they were unable to penetrate Everton’s defense.
Manager Laura Kaminski has a lot of work to do if Palace is to avoid relegation. They need to be more clinical in attack and improve their defensive structure.
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Everton’s Rising Confidence
This victory could be a turning point for Everton as they look to climb the table. Their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency were on full display, and if they can maintain this form, a top-half finish is well within reach.
Post-Match Reactions
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Brian Sorensen (Everton Manager):
“I’m proud of the team. We executed our game plan well and controlled the match from start to finish. This win gives us confidence, and now we focus on building momentum in the coming fixtures.”
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Laura Kaminski (Crystal Palace Manager):
“We knew this would be a tough challenge, but I’m disappointed with our lack of attacking threat. We need to improve in the final third and start picking up points before it’s too late.”
Everton’s next match will be a tough encounter against Aston Villa, while Palace faces a crucial relegation battle against Bristol City.
For Everton, this win provides a foundation for further success. For Palace, the fight for survival is becoming more desperate. Can they turn their fortunes around before it’s too late? The coming weeks will be crucial.
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