Lauren Hemp capped off a thrilling 4-2 win for Manchester City over Liverpool, helping the defending WSL champions preserve a flawless start to their title defence. The match, which saw City equal Chelsea's record of 14 consecutive home victories in the league, was a roller‑coaster that almost saw the record broken before the final whistle.
City entered the Joie Stadium with confidence, having not lost in 13 previous outings there. Yet, as the clock ticked toward the 90th minute, their unbeaten run and the new record were under serious threat. Liverpool fought back hard, forcing City to scramble for an equaliser in the first half and then capitalising on a series of late defensive lapses by the Reds. If City can beat Arsenal at home on 4 October, they will set a fresh benchmark for consecutive home wins in the WSL, surpassing Chelsea's achievement between September 2019 and January 2021.
The drama intensified in stoppage time when Liverpool captain Grace Fisk inadvertently turned the ball into her own net, giving City a 3-2 lead as five minutes of added time were displayed. Sensing a draw, Liverpool pushed a large number of players forward, leaving gaps that Hemp exploited with a blistering run down the right flank before slotting the ball past former teammate Khiara Keating.
The England international also opened the scoring for City earlier in the match, finishing a well‑crafted team move for her first goal of the season since November. Her strike demonstrated her growing confidence and underscored City’s intent to dominate the early stages of the campaign. Liverpool, however, responded with vigor.
A defensive misunderstanding allowed Alice Bergström to fire home, and Vivien Endemann, who had set up the opening goal, followed with a superb volley that slipped through Ayaka Yamashita's outstretched hand. Their quick reply gave the Reds a deserved lead and set the tone for a tightly contested second half. Khadija "Bunny" Shaw continued her impressive form, scoring her fourth league goal of the season to level the score. After Hemp’s initial effort was saved by Keating, Shaw was quick to pounce on the rebound, tapping the ball home from close range.
Shaw’s contribution highlighted why retaining her was the most astute piece of business for City this summer. Shaw’s tally now stands at 52 home goals in the WSL, overtaking Bethany England as the record holder, and she has become the first City player to find the net in each of the first three league matches of a season. Her consistency adds another layer of threat to an already potent City attack.
When the final whistle blew, City had extended their lead at the top of the table to five points, while Liverpool remained third, four points behind. The match was a clear illustration of how small errors can dictate outcomes in high‑stakes football. Sky Sports analyst Charlotte Marsh offered her perspective: "Liverpool may have lost, but they pushed the champions to the limit on their own ground – a feat few have managed. The Joie Stadium record‑equalling run shows how dominant City have been here." Marsh also noted the transformation at Liverpool since last season, citing the tragic loss of former manager Matt Beard and kitman Jon Humble, a spate of injuries, and the steadying influence of new boss Gareth Taylor.
She praised the performances of Bergström, Endemann and Beta Olsson, describing the latter as a "super arrival from Wolfsburg" who immediately raised the standard of the Reds' defence. "For large portions of the game Liverpool pressed better, made smarter choices and displayed greater confidence," Marsh added. "Late lapses, however, cost them dearly, but Taylor can be satisfied with the progress his side has made after a difficult year." Key moments of the match were: - 13' – Hemp finishes a brilliant team move for her first goal of the season. - 19' – A defensive mix‑up at City allows Bergström to score.
- 28' – Liverpool take the lead after Endemann’s close‑range effort slips through Yamashita’s hands. - 39' – Shaw smashes the post as City search for a first‑half equaliser.
- 45+2' – Shaw converts a rebound after Keating spills Hemp’s shot. - 60' – Keating makes a crucial save, denying Shaw again.
- 90' – Fisk’s own‑goal puts City back in front. - 90+5' – Hemp breaks away and calmly slots past Keating to seal the win.
After the match, Hemp spoke to Sky Sports, admitting that scoring is not a regular part of her game but expressing delight at getting on the scoresheet, especially with the decisive late goal. She highlighted the depth of the squad and the energy brought on by substitutes, which proved vital during periods of struggle.
City manager Andree Jeglertz reflected on the victory, emphasizing that each win has its own significance and that Liverpool presented a tough, adaptable challenge. He praised his team's resilience, the creation of numerous chances, and the unwavering belief that ultimately secured the triumph. Regarding Hemp, Jeglertz said, "She is an incredible talent, full of energy and a genuine game‑changer. Even when she missed an early chance, she kept her composure and made a decisive impact later on." Liverpool boss Gareth Taylor acknowledged the disappointment of falling short but remained optimistic about his side’s attacking approach.
He noted that the Reds have improved markedly since finishing 11th last season, praising the players' attitude and the progress made, while also identifying the need to sharpen their finishing in the final third. Overall, the encounter showcased why Manchester City remain the benchmark in English women's football, combining experienced internationals like Hemp and Shaw with a deep squad capable of weathering pressure and delivering when it matters most.
The result also underlines Liverpool's upward trajectory, suggesting that with continued development they could challenge for higher positions as the season unfolds. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1m! Enter for free.