Khadija Bunny Shaw’s first-half goal earned Manchester City their first three points of the season with a 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday at the Joie Stadium.
Despite the narrow scoreline, the early kickoff delivered an action-packed encounter and the Sky Blues will likely feel they could have walked away with a more comfortable win, had they been more clinical in front of goal.
Lauren Hemp, a constant creative threat throughout the match, endured a frustrating afternoon as her efforts went unrewarded. The breakthrough finally came five minutes before the interval, courtesy of a well-placed cross from Kerstin Casparij, which Shaw deftly guided home.
For Brighton, it was a challenging afternoon on the road. However, under new manager Dario Vidošić, there were flashes of attacking promise in the first half. The Seagulls matched City in moments and defended resolutely, especially in the second half, as they worked hard to keep the hosts from extending their lead.
In the opening 10 minutes, Brighton showed plenty of intent, pressing high and forcing Manchester City to remain alert at the back. However, it was the hosts who had the first big chance, with Hemp testing goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley with a low drive from outside the box.
Moments later, Shaw found herself with an opportunity after linking up with Hemp in the area, but the Jamaican international’s shot took a deflection, drifting wide of the far post.
The decisive moment came in the 44th minute. Casparij, impressive in her left-back role, whipped a precise ball across the face of goal, allowing Shaw to apply the faintest of touches, which proved enough to beat Baggaley and put City ahead just before halftime.
Brighton continued to fight in the second half, displaying grit and determination, but City’s dominance in possession ensured the Seagulls couldn’t find a way back into the game. Despite several more chances for the home side, including more probing runs from Hemp, the match ended 1-0, with Shaw’s goal proving to be the difference.
Starting XIs:
Manchester City: Yamashita (GK), Layzell, Greenwood (c), Casparij, Park, Hasegawa, Miedema, Fujino, Shaw, Hemp
Brighton: Baggaley, Carabali, Bergsvand, Thorisdottir, Pattinson, Olislagers, Losada (c), Kirby, Vilamala, Bremer, Seike
Featured image courtesy of Manchester City FC.