Lauren Hemp provided the book‑ends for Manchester City’s 4-2 triumph over Liverpool, helping the defending WSL champions preserve a flawless opening to their title‑defence campaign. The match, played at the Joie Stadium, saw City cling to a 13‑game winning streak at the venue, but the outcome was far from certain until the final minutes. The first half was a roller‑coaster. City found themselves trailing after a defensive lapse allowed Liverpool’s captain Grace Fisk to score an own‑goal that put the hosts 3‑2 ahead deep into stoppage time.
Sensing that a draw was imminent, Liverpool pressed forward aggressively, leaving gaps at the back. Hemp seized the opportunity, sprinting down the right flank and slotting a composed finish past former teammate Khiara Keating to level the score. This goal marked Hemp’s first of the season and capped a beautifully orchestrated team move.
Liverpool, however, were not to be dismissed. They responded with vigor, capitalising on a defensive mix‑up to give Alice Bergström the chance to fire home. Shortly after, Vivien Endemann, who had earlier supplied the assist for the opening goal, unleashed a spectacular volley that slipped through the outstretched hand of goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, restoring Liverpool’s lead. The battle for supremacy continued when Khadija “Bunny” Shaw, who is on a remarkable run for a third consecutive Golden Boot, equalised from close range after Keating spilled Hemp’s initial shot.
Shaw’s goal not only leveled the match but also cemented her status as the all‑time leading scorer for Manchester City at home, overtaking Bethany England with a total of 52 home goals in the WSL. Her consistency underscores why retaining her was the most astute piece of business for City during the summer transfer window.
As the clock ticked past the 90th minute, another twist unfolded. An own‑goal by Grace Fisk—this time a mis‑directed clearance—sent the ball into City’s net, giving them a 4‑3 lead.
Liverpool, still fighting, pushed men forward in the dying seconds, but Hemp’s experience shone through once more. She collected the ball on a swift counter‑attack, dribbled past Keating, and calmly finished, sealing a 4‑2 victory for City.
The win not only extended City’s unbeaten run but also matched Chelsea’s record of 14 consecutive home wins in the WSL, a feat achieved between September 2019 and January 2021. With a forthcoming home clash against Arsenal on October 4, City have the chance to set a new benchmark. Beyond the statistics, the match highlighted the depth of City’s squad.
Hemp admitted after the game that she does not often find herself on the scoresheet, saying, “It’s nice to get on the scoresheet for once, especially with the last goal when I had so much time. I thought, ‘Oh no, where am I going to put this?’ but I’m pleased we won.” Her comments reflected the collective belief that the team’s depth allowed them to overcome periods of struggle and maintain momentum. Manager Andree Jeglertz praised his side’s resilience, noting, “All victories are special in their own way. This game was tough; we knew it would be challenging.
The first half was a bit back‑and‑forth, but we created plenty of chances and I’m very pleased with the group’s mentality.” He added that the players never stopped believing, a trait that ultimately secured the win. Liverpool’s manager Gareth Taylor expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about his team’s progress.
He highlighted the aggressive approach his side took, stating, “We attacked the game the way I wanted. It shows we’ll win many games this season if we keep this attitude.” Taylor also acknowledged the quality gap between his side and the champions, noting that Liverpool finished 11th last season and that closing the gap would require time and continued improvement. The match also featured several notable moments: - 13th minute: Hemp finishes a brilliant team move for her first goal of the season.
- 19th minute: A defensive mix‑up allows Bergström to score for Liverpool. - 28th minute: Endemann’s close‑range effort beats Yamashita, giving Liverpool the lead.
- 39th minute: Shaw’s shot rattles the post as City search for a first‑half equaliser. - 45+2 minutes: Shaw converts a spill from Keating to level the score. - 60th minute: Keating makes a crucial save, denying Shaw. - 90th minute: Fisk’s own‑goal puts City back in front.
- 90+5 minutes: Hemp’s breakaway finish secures the win. Statistically, the result pushed City five points clear at the top of the table, while Liverpool remain third with four points. The game underscored how small errors can dictate outcomes in high‑stakes matches, yet City’s ability to recover and capitalize on those mistakes proved decisive. Overall, the encounter demonstrated the evolving landscape of women’s football in England.
Liverpool, still rebuilding after the loss of former manager Matt Beard and kitman Jon Humble, showed significant improvement under Gareth Taylor, with players like Bergström and Endemann making an impact. City, meanwhile, continue to set standards of excellence, blending experienced internationals such as Hemp and Shaw with emerging talent, ensuring they remain the benchmark for the league.