Manchester City edged closer to their second-ever Women’s Super League title on Sunday as Rebecca Knaak grabbed an injury-time winner against Liverpool at the Joie Stadium.
A tense affair looked set to end level, but Knaak’s last-gasp header secured a precious three points in the title race with just one game remaining.
It was former City manager Gareth Taylor’s first return to the Joie since his departure 14 months ago, and his side impressed throughout. However, Liverpool failed to capitalise on a number of chances.
The visitors came closest to breaking the deadlock when Grace Fisk rattled the woodwork from a corner. City were particularly poor in the first half, registering just one shot on target as Kadijah Shaw was denied from close range by Jennifer Falk.
They improved considerably after the break and ultimately snatched all three points late on.
“It was a tough game, but I think that says something about this group,” said Manchester City boss Andrée Jeglertz at full-time.
“Even in moments where we struggle, we find a way to win.
“Liverpool can be difficult for us, but finding a way to win is something we’ve talked about this year. It shows the character of the group, no matter what, we never give up. We keep going, believe and trust what we’re doing.
“We got over the line in the end, so that’s nice.”
The result could prove decisive. Ahead of the league leaders’ final home fixture, there had been growing talk of pressure and the possibility of Arsenal snatching the title late on. This victory makes that outcome far less likely.
City now sit on 52 points from 21 games, placing them 11 points clear of Arsenal. While Renée Slegers’ side have games in hand, the title remains firmly in Manchester City’s control ahead of their final-day trip to West Ham.
Emotional Laura Coombs farewell
Full-time also marked an emotional farewell for Laura Coombs, who came on as a substitute in her final appearance at the Joie Stadium.
The 35-year-old announced earlier this week that she will retire at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on a 19-year career.
In November 2025, Coombs became just the fourth player in WSL history to reach 200 league appearances. She has made 155 appearances across all competitions for Manchester City and has also earned seven caps for England, including being part of the squad that reached the Women’s World Cup final in 2023.
Jeglertz was full of praise for the midfielder when speaking post-match:
“She’s an amazing person. She’s positive, which means a lot for the culture in the group.
“She makes sure everybody is seen and heard. That’s a huge part of what she brings, alongside being a great player.
“You can put her almost anywhere on the pitch. She always has the right attitude in training and gives her best in everything she does.
“Of course, you’ll lose that kind of mentality and personality. She impacts so many players through who she is.”
Before calling time on her career, Coombs could yet add further silverware, with both the WSL title and Women’s FA Cup still within reach.
Manchester City next face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals at Stamford Bridge.
Featured image courtesy of Declan Lloyd/Manchester City FC media portal.