Sunderland travelled to Everton hoping to continue their cup exploits following their fine performance against Liverpool. However,
despite a brave performance they were undone by the experience of a very competent Merseyside outfit who, on this performance, will
take some stopping in the competition.
Sunderland were dealt an early blow on two minute as the home side struck first blood when Gwen Harries’ through ball was picked up by Natasha Dowie who cut inside from the right flank and drove a low shot into the opposite corner of the net past a stranded Rachael Laws. Sunderland however, fought back and gained momentum retaining possession more effectively, however they failed to make the final ball count and lacked real penetration. Long range strikes from Natalie Gutteridge and Jordan Nobbs were dealt with comfortably by Everton and England goalkeeper Rachael Brown. A lofted free kick from Stephanie Bannon saw Gutteridge rise at the back post only to be beaten to the ball by Wearsider Jill Scott.
On thirty-five minutes the visitors’ woes were doubled as a quick break saw England International Fara Williams go one on one with
Sunderland keeper Laws to calmly slot the ball into the corner of the goal.
HT...Everton Ladies 2 vs 0 Sunderland Ladies
Sunderland began the second half brightly and pressed Everton more effectively. When in possession
the young Black Cats showed sparks of potential against what was an extremely experienced and organised outfit. Jordan Nobbs took
on the role as play maker making several threatening runs forward; however each attack was comfortably dealt with by the star studded
Merseyside back line. A series of corner kicks were defended competently by the visitors and the game was becoming evenly contested
without any real threat to either goal. However, Everton once again found their rhythm as they stepped up a gear to score two further
goals in the final eight minutes. The first well taken by Jill Scott following some fine play and the final strike resulting from
a goal mouth scramble as Jody Handley poked the ball home from close in. The Black Cats luck worsened late on as keeper Laws had to
leave the field with a hand injury and, as no substitute goalkeeper was available, Becky Salicki took over for the final minutes.
FT...Everton
Ladies 4 vs 0 Sunderland Ladies
Despite the result manager Mick Mulhern was upbeat after the game...
”I was pleased with the way the girls played. Everton are one of the best teams in Europe and we made them work hard for their victory.
The final score was harsh as they scored 2 late goals with Scotty (Jill Scott) setting them on their way with a lovely piece of play.
That knocked the wind out of our game plan as we conceded again so quickly which is disappointing considering how well we had played.
“There
were many positives to take from the game and hopefully we can realise that we have no need to fear anyone.”
Sunderland..Laws(Salicki),
Holmes(Greenwell), Bannon, Wilson, Devine, Stokes, Staniforth, Nobbs, McDougall, Williams(Halliday), Gutteridge. Subs (not used)..Clark,
Unwin.