Manchester United Women made the perfect start to the 2022/23 Women’s Super League season. With an excellent performance securing the win over Reading at Leigh Sports Village; in front of a record crowd of 5,315.
Fresh from the euphoria of England’s Euro 2022 win; in the fans’ minds there was excitement ahead of kick off. Anticipation grew to see the United players Alessia Russo, Ella Toone, Mary Earps and Nikita Parris; who all played a crucial part in the tournament.
Dominant display as United run rampant in first half
Marc Skinner’s side were emphatic in front of goal in the first 45 minutes. The Red Devils started the game with intensity and on the front foot. We were rewarded early on for our efforts when Maya Le Tissier on her debut scored a looping shot over Reading’s goalkeeper Grace Moloney from Katie Zelem’s corner.
Ten minutes later and United made it two. Alessia Russo was brought down in the box by Moloney. Katie Zelem stepped up and converted from the penalty spot to mark her 100th appearance for the club.
We continued to dominate throughout the half with our full backs Ona Batlle and Hannah Blundell involved in the play.
As we approached the half hour mark, Le Tissier added her second goal and United’s third of the game. She powered a header across the goal from Zelem’s corner.
Just before the half time whistle went; Alessia Russo added the fourth with an excellent header after delightful link up play between Ona Batlle and Lucia Garcia down the right wing. Garcia could have made it five moments afterwards but Moloney saved her effort.
More of the same from United in the second half
The second half saw United continue to dominate; picking up just where they had left off. We had plenty of possession and a number of goal scoring opportunities. Russo had the chance to score into the empty net but her effort went wide of the goal.
Changes were made to the side as Martha Thomas and Adriana Leon, who was also making her debut for United, came on to supplement the attack.
Though we were not able to score any more goals, we controlled the game through our possession to deny the opposition any chances.
The 5,315 record crowd generated a lot of noise and energy. United certainly gave us something to shout about.
“We came out of the blocks like lightning. We were absolutely devastating in the first half and there aren’t many teams who can live with us if we are going to play like that. Overall I’m really, really pleased with girls’ commitment, attitude and they did all the things we are asking them to do this year. Step up another gear, go beyond.”
Mark Skinner via MUTV
We now head away to West Ham next Sunday as United look to continue their good start.