Manchester United Women were just minutes away from securing their first win of the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign, what would have been the first under new manager Eva Olid. A 90 minutes of hard play at the Emirates nearly had them over the line when Smilla Holmberg struck at the back post for Arsenal.
United are winless through three matches. They suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Chelsea last week after a 2-1 opening day loss on the road at London City, and the offseason shortcomings of the team’s
front office appeared to be bleeding into the season through the lack of marquee signings. The new manager was under pressure early to keep the team together, and they responded with a solid performance on Saturday.
The Reds withstood a strong attacking display from the Gunners, who generated 1.82 xG over the course of the match with nearly 60% of the ball. United meanwhile managed just four shots, but were accurate with their limited opportunities. They broke through with Julia Zigiotti Olme in the 67th minute to take the lead, rewarding a stout defensive display with an advantage to take into the late stages of the match.
The United defense recorded four blocks while Phallon Tullis-Joyce made six saves to keep out the Gunners. It was a valiant effort, but came to an end with a loose runner at the back post as Arsenal resorted to desperation balls into the box. It paid off at 1-1 to spoil the day for Olid and United.
Still, there is a bit of a reprieve after a daunting opening trio of games. The Reds are at home for the next three WSLixtures, facing Sheffield United, West Ham United, and Liverpool with a League Cup fixture at Durham in between. It’s an opportunity to reset and get into the win column, and maybe play a bit more how the new manager wants to play in games where they’re likely to hold possession.
