Everton finally score from open play as Villa and Charlton remain winless

Mace ends Everton’s goal drought

Everton claimed a 2-1 win over Birmingham as Ruby Mace scored both goals, ending the club’s wait for a goal scored by one of their own players in the league this season. Her first was a left-footed strike into the far corner; the second took a deflection on its way in.

“I’m really happy. I have been working on my shooting, putting in the extra work, and luckily today I managed to score,” Mace said. Everton moved to fifth in the table on nine points after five matches.

Villa held after taking the lead

Aston Villa’s interim manager Brian Sørensen began his spell with a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. Noelle Maritz put Villa ahead in the 55th minute, but Abbie Larkin equalised 19 minutes later. Villa remain without a league win and are 12th with three points.

Charlton’s defensive failings exposed

Charlton’s wait for a first point continued after a 5-1 defeat at Brighton, despite taking the lead. Manager Karen Hills called her side’s defending “unacceptable” and stressed the need to handle one-on-one duels and perform the basics. Charlton have lost all five league matches.

Liverpool frustrated by United’s direct approach

Liverpool lost 1-0 to Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village despite having 51% of possession. Liverpool manager Gareth Taylor said his team had become too direct in response to United and needed to be “braver” and return to their own approach.