Stoney: Beating City proves hard work pays off
Manchester United Women manager Casey Stoney feels hard yards on the training pitch inspired our 2-0 victory over Manchester City Women in the FA Women's Continental League Cup.
Goals from captain Katie Zelem and Jess Sigsworth ended our crosstown rivals’ 100 per cent start to the domestic season, in our first-ever women's home derby, at Leigh Sports Village.
“I think we have to be pleased because I don’t think [goalkeeper] Mary Earps had to actually make a save today,” Stoney told MUTV in her post-match interview.
“To score two goals against such a good side, who hadn’t even conceded this season, I have to credit my squad today, because every single one of them did their jobs magnificently.
Highlights: United Women 2 Man City Women 0
Watch the key moments and Casey Stoney’s reaction after we secured a first-ever win over our crosstown rivals...
“In the build-up, I always say it’s the work they put in on the training pitch that comes out today [on matchday].
“They executed the game plan and I hope they enjoy this moment and we build from there.”
Stoney reserved particular praise for Sigsworth, after our leading scorer from last season tapped home Kirsty Hanson’s cross. It was her first goal of the current campaign and it's one her manager feels she earned.
“She’s an absolute grafter,” Stoney added. “She’s gone in the [number nine position] today to give us a little bit more pace up top and a little bit of threat out of possession because she presses so hard and so well.
“I have to say the second goal was an unbelievable move and she’s finished it off well.
“She’s said ‘front post run!’ because we’re always reminding her of that.
“Credit to her, she’s worked so hard and she deserves a goal.”
Sigsworth herself touched upon the importance of yesterday's result, over a side which has won all four of their Women’s Super League matches this season and is competing in the Women's Champions League for the fourth consecutive year.
“It was amazing, we executed the gameplan really well and to turn the city red, it’s just amazing,” the 25-year-old said.
“Man City are a top side in this league and to beat them 2-0 gives us great momentum for the rest of the season.”
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