Aston Villa vs Manchester United LIVE: Women's Super League result, final score and reaction
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Manchester United came from behind to defeat Aston Villa 2-1 in their opening game of the Women’s Super League (WSL) season at Villa Park on Sunday, with substitute Rachel Williams scoring the late winner.
With the game into the second minute of added time, a cross into the box from Nikita Parris found Williams, and her header back across the goal beat Villa keeper Daphne van Domselaar to snatch the winning goal.
“It was a top match, we fought to the very end. We are very happy to score the two goals and come back from behind. It was hard work but we just kept going,” United’s other scorer Lucia Garcia said.
Last season’s WSL runners-up United fell behind in the 76th minute to a Rachel Daly goal. Daly, top scorer last season, controlled a pass from Adriana Leon before firing past keeper Mary Earps.
Villa’s goal came just two minutes after they had Kirsty Hanson sent off for a high tackle on Hayley Ladd, but their lead lasted just three minutes.
A scramble from a United corner kick saw the ball fall to Garcia and the Spaniard’s first-time shot found the net. With the extra player, United knew they still had time for a winner.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Attempt blocked. Nikita Parris (Manchester United Women) header from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Katie Zelem with a cross.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Corner, Manchester United Women. Conceded by Daphne van Domselaar.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Attempt saved. Katie Zelem (Manchester United Women) right footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Nikita Parris.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Attempt saved. Nikita Parris (Manchester United Women) right footed shot from outside the box is saved.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Delay over. They are ready to continue.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Adriana Leon (Aston Villa Women) is shown the yellow card.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Delay in match because of an injury Lucy Parker (Aston Villa Women).
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Foul by Rachel Williams (Manchester United Women).
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Rachel Daly (Aston Villa Women) wins a free kick in the defensive half.
Aston Villa vs Manchester United
Corner, Manchester United Women. Conceded by Rachel Corsie.
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