Lauren Hemp capped a thrilling 4-2 triumph for Manchester City over Liverpool, helping the defending champions preserve an unbeaten opening to their title defence. The match, however, was far from a routine win; City’s impressive 13‑game winning streak at the Joie Stadium was under serious threat until the final minutes. After conceding two goals in the first half, City fought back to level the score and then capitalised on Liverpool’s late defensive lapses to secure the victory. The win brings City level with Chelsea’s historic run of 14 consecutive home wins in the Women’s Super League – a record the Blues set between September 2019 and January 2021.
A forthcoming home fixture against Arsenal on 4 October could see City break that benchmark and establish a new standard for dominance at the Joie Stadium. The drama intensified in stoppage time when Liverpool’s captain Grace Fisk inadvertently scored an own‑goal, putting the hosts ahead 3-2 as the referee added five minutes of extra time. Sensing an imminent draw, Liverpool pushed an excessive number of players forward, leaving space for Hemp to sprint down the flank and finish calmly past former teammate Khiara Keating.
Hemp’s strike not only sealed the win but also marked her first goal of the season, completing a slick team move that showcased City’s attacking fluidity. Liverpool, however, had already shown their quality earlier in the encounter. A defensive misunderstanding allowed Alice Bergström to unleash a powerful shot, and Vivien Endemann – the creator of City’s opening goal – responded with a superb volley that slipped through the outstretched hand of goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita.
These moments underscored Liverpool’s capacity to challenge the champions when they were at their best. Khadija “Bunny” Shaw continued her prolific form, scoring her fourth league goal of the campaign to level the score after City’s early lead. Shaw pounced on a spill from Keating following Hemp’s initial attempt, tapping the ball home from close range.
Her contribution highlighted why retaining Shaw was arguably City’s most successful summer acquisition. With this goal, Shaw eclipsed Bethany England to become the all‑time leading home scorer in WSL history, now sitting on 52 goals, and she also became the first City player to find the net in each of the opening three league matches of a season. The match ultimately hinged on errors and opportunism, but City emerged the better side, extending their lead at the summit to five points with several games still to play.
Liverpool, despite the loss, remain in third place, just four points behind the leaders. Sky Sports analyst Charlotte Marsh reflected on the fixture: “Liverpool may have been beaten, but they pushed the champions to the limit on their own ground – a feat few have managed. This Liverpool side is a far cry from the one a year ago, which was still coping with the tragic loss of former manager Matt Beard and kitman Jon Humble, as well as a spate of injuries. Under new boss Gareth Taylor, the Reds have shown remarkable resilience and progress.
“Endemann, despite limited WSL experience, performed like a seasoned veteran, troubling City’s defence alongside new signings Beta Olsson and Bergström from Wolfsburg. For large stretches of the game, Liverpool displayed superior pressing, decision‑making, and confidence.
Late mistakes cost them, but Taylor can be proud of the turnaround his squad has achieved after a difficult previous season. “Last season it took Liverpool 12 games to amass four points; they have already matched that tally this year and could aim for a solid mid‑table finish if they maintain this trajectory.” Key moments of the match were: - 13′ – Hemp finishes a beautiful team move for her first goal of the season.
- 19′ – A defensive mix‑up allows Bergström to slot home for Liverpool. - 28′ – Endemann’s close‑range effort beats Yamashita, giving Liverpool the lead. - 39′ – Shaw rattles the post as City search for a first‑half equaliser. - 45+2′ – Shaw converts a spill from Keating to level the score.
- 60′ – Keating makes a crucial save, denying Shaw. - 90′ – Fisk’s own‑goal puts City back in front. - 90+5′ – Hemp breaks away and calmly finishes past Keating to seal the win.
After the match, Hemp told Sky Sports, “I don’t usually get on the scoresheet, so it felt great to score, especially the late winner. It shows the depth we have in the squad – when we were under pressure, fresh energy came on and changed the game for us.” City manager Andrée Jeglertz commented, “Every victory is special in its own way.
This game was tough; Liverpool changed their tactics and we had to adapt. The first half was a bit chaotic, but we created plenty of chances and scored four goals. I’m proud of the group’s mentality – they never stopped believing and kept pushing until the end.” Jeglertz added praise for Hemp: “She’s an incredible player, full of energy and passion.
Even when she missed an early chance, she kept going and proved to be a game‑changer.” Liverpool boss Gareth Taylor admitted disappointment, saying, “We fell just short, but I’m pleased with how we approached the game. Our attacking intent was exactly what I wanted. If we continue to play like this, we’ll win many games this season. We’re improving compared to last year; the players showed first‑class attitude, even if we still need to sharpen our finishing in the final third.” Overall, the encounter highlighted the fine margins that separate the league’s elite.
City’s ability to recover from a two‑goal deficit and capitalize on Liverpool’s late errors demonstrated their championship pedigree, while Liverpool’s spirited performance suggested they are emerging as a genuine contender for a higher finish in the 2024‑25 WSL season.