Manchester United Women suffered a second consecutive away defeat today. The Red Devils lost 3-2 against a game West Ham side.
Casey Stoney made one change from the 4-0 home win against Brighton, with Lauren James making way for Jane Ross. Allowing Ross to face her former side.
The change proved its worth as the Scotland international was involved from the off. Ross provided an assist as she delivered a pinpoint cross to find Kirsty Hanson.
Minutes later the hosts responded. United failed to clear their lines from a corner which led to Kenza Dali delivering a cross to Laura Vetterlein to head past Mary Earps.
The opening goals set the tone for the match as the game was end to end. Leah Galton’s fierce shot forced a good save from goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan. Kirsty Hanson was also denied by Brosnan, as she saw her header tipped onto the crossbar.
Captain Katie Zelem was next to test Brosnan as her shot from 20 yards out looked destined for the top corner but Brosnan did well to save the shot.
Half time arrived with both sides level at the break.
The second half did not burst into life like the first half. Therefore, Casey Stoney looked to her bench to try and reinvigorate United’s attack bringing on Lauren James.
As united pressed on, 9 minutes from, time super-sub Lauren James finished past Brosnon after latching to Hanson’s through a ball.
History seemed to repeat itself, as United who were again lapse immediately after scoring.
West Ham, who really did not create much in the second half, drew level. Katharina Baunach’s free-kick seemed to bypass everyone and found the back of the net.
Zelem identifies areas of improvement
Another set piece proved to be United’s downfall. Substitute Ella Toone’s rash challenge just outside the box proved costly. Baunach stepped up again and placed the ball beautifully in the bottom corner.
United captain Katie Zelem stated set pieces were the difference today and its “something they need to look at and work on for the future”.
Speaking to HerFootballHub, Zelem said: “I’m not sure anything needs to change
“In previous results we’ve played great football we need to go back and look at the game see what we can work on for next time”
Looking forward to United’s next fixture The Reds play at home against Everton in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
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