Monday 20 January 2025 12:03
Marc Skinner says Sunday’s victory in the Manchester derby ranks among the finest in his tenure so far.
The Reds powered past our neighbours at the Etihad Stadium, racing into a three-goal lead after 36 minutes, with Ella Toone scoring twice, either side of Leah Galton’s goal.
City worked their way back into the contest with two strikes before the break, before Toone capitalised on an error in the home side’s backline to complete her hat-trick in the opening minute of the second half.
It’s the first time we’ve ever beaten the Blues on their own patch and Skinner believes the result is up there with our 3-2 win at Arsenal, in November 2022 and last season’s Adobe Women’s FA Cup success over Chelsea.
90 in 20: Man City v United Women Video
90 in 20: Man City v United Women
Enjoy the extended cut of our first WSL win at the Etihad Stadium, inspired by Ella Toone’s electric hat-trick…
“It’s one of the very best,” Skinner admitted, in his post-match press conference.
“Of course, I think it probably ranks up with the Emirates game, and the semi-final against Chelsea, just for the magnitude of the game.”
The boss recalled how our rivals celebrated following their own big derby win last season and he wanted his own players to do the same.
There is though, the small matter of a return derby – the League Cup quarter-final at Leigh on Wednesday – and a tricky home clash with Brighton on Sunday coming up.
Skinner wants the Reds to keep the focus as we continue to push on all three domestic fronts.
“The reality was I remember when we played City at home at Old Trafford and you know, they really enjoyed themselves after the game,” he added.
“So I think it was important for us too, for the players to enjoy it, but also realise… the players know it’s great to get that win but not if you don’t learn and take that forward.
“So we’ve got to take that into the next two games.
“I want to be very clear: I’m buzzing for the team. I’m buzzing for all of our fans. It’s three points and we’ve got to play them again on Wednesday. So it’s straight back down to earth and work.”
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Monday 20 January 2025 12:03
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