Match report: Man United Women 2-2 Man City Women | OneFootball

Manchester United Women fought back to secure a crucial 2-2 draw with Manchester City that ensured their qualification to the Champions League next season.

The Red Devils had an early chance when Celin Bizet had an improvised effort stopped by the City keeper and Grace Clinton could not prod home the rebound.

City grew into the game however, and former United player Alex Greenwood whipped the ball in for Kerolin whose poked effort was well stopped by Phallon Tullis-Joyce.

The visitors kept up the pressure and after a corner was cleared by the Red Devils, Kerstin Casparij fired in a long range effort that just missed the post by a whisker.

City were well in their groove by then and on 38 minutes, Laia Aleixandri skilfully collected the ball, danced into the penalty box before slotting home, leaving Tullis-Joyce no chance.

Shortly after, United were two down as Rebecca Knaak thundered home a header from close range.

Nonetheless, Marc Skinner’s young side have shown that they are not only talented but also have an abundance of bravery and came roaring back.

Just before half-time, Grace Clinton grabbed a vital goal in front of a delighted Old Trafford.

Aoife Mannion delivered an inch-perfect cross that was well met by Clinton with a powerful header to give her side hope of a comeback.

United came out fighting in the second half in front of the Stretford End and they were level after 68 minutes.

Melvine Malard entered the fray after 63 minutes and only needed five minutes to make her mark on the game.

The French international raced on to a flick on from Elisabeth Terland and calmly slotted the ball past Khiara Keating in the City goal.

It was a wonderful reaction from the Red Devils but disaster struck just one minute later.

Mannion was caught in possession and could not keep up with Kerolin, so could only drag the Brazilian to the ground.

The referee did not hesitate and showed her a second yellow and United were left to fight on with just 10 players.

Defending has been one of the key reasons behind United’s success this season however, and they valiantly held on to qualify for the Champions League for just the second time in their history.

They will close out the Women’s Super League season next Saturday lunchtime with a trip to Arsenal before facing Chelsea in the FA Cup final on Sunday 18th May.

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