Depleted Manchester City failed to close the gap with leaders Chelsea in the Women's Super League in the title race after beating 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 at the weekend but failed to capitalize, 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 absorb pressure and cede possession, picking their moments to attack – which were short but purposeful – and scoring twice in eight first-half minutes.
Sara Holmgaard teased a cross for Lucy Hope to go past Khiara Keating, before Melissa Lawley moved right to beat Honoka Hayashi and she deflected home.
Man City tried to respond late on when Yui Hasegawa won a penalty, calmly sent in by Mary Fowler, but resilient Everton held on for a historic victory – their first win over City in 17 attempts.
Chelsea remain top of the WSL and lead the way with 28 points, while Man City are six points behind in second place.
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