Depleted Manchester City failed to close the gap to Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea in the title race after being stunned by Everton 2-1.
Gareth Taylor’s side had the chance to reduce the deficit to three points after Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw with Leicester this weekend but failed to capitalise, with injuries to key players taking a significant toll.
Captain Alex Greenwood was stretchered off in midweek, while Bunny Shaw and Lauren Hemp were also notable absentees, as Man City struggled for rhythm and fluidity.
Everton were tactically smarter than their visitors, willing to soak up pressure and concede possession, picking their moments to attack – which were brief but purposeful – and scoring twice in eight first-half minutes.
Sara Holmgaard teased a cross for Lucy Hope to head beyond Khiara Keating, before Melissa Lawley powered down the right to tee up Honoka Hayashi and she swept home via a deflection.
Man City attempted a late response when Yui Hasegawa won a penalty, despatched calmly by Mary Fowler, but resilient Everton held on for a historic win – their first over City in 17 attempts.
Chelsea remain the WSL’s front-runners, leading the way with 28 points, with Man City six adrift in second.
