In a crucial match for both teams’ standings, Everton clinched a 2-1 victory over Brighton in the Women’s Super League, edging closer to securing their top-flight safety. The decisive moment came with the unfortunate 72nd own goal by Brighton’s Guro Bergsvand, who inadvertently bundled the ball into her own net following a mix-up in defense that Everton’s Aurora Galli capitalized on.
The game was tightly contested, with neither goalkeeper facing significant pressure until the hour mark when Everton finally broke the deadlock. Twins Karen and Sara Holmgaard combined brilliantly, with substitute Karen heading in a cross to put Everton ahead. However, their lead was short-lived as Brighton quickly leveled the score just two minutes later, with Tatiana Pinto smashing home a rebound after Maisie Symonds hit the crossbar.
Despite some promising moments, Brighton’s Elisabeth Terland, who boasts 12 league goals this season, struggled to make an impact due to limited service. Both teams found themselves mostly canceling each other out in midfield, with half-chances few and far between. Ultimately, it was a defensive error that allowed Everton to capitalize and secure the win.
While Everton’s safety from relegation has seemed likely for some time, this victory, coupled with other results, could mathematically confirm their position. Likewise, Brighton’s safety could also be assured by the end of the weekend, barring unexpected results from bottom-placed Bristol City’s match against Liverpool.
