Manchester City 1, Liverpool FC Women 0: Reds Lose It Late Yet Again

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 03: Lauren Hemp of Manchester City is challenged by Risa Shimizu and Fuka Nagano of Liverpool during the Barclays Women's Super League match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Joie Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Liverpool FC Women faced the daunting task of taking on a Manchester City side needing wins in their last two matches to ensure they win their first WSL title in a decade. Gareth Taylor’s side technically had nothing left to play for other than pride after they were ensured survival from relegation thanks to Leicester City losing last Monday.

Despite Manchester City having everything to play for and Liverpool not needing to worry about a result, it was the Reds who came out flying. Liverpool generated three very good chances in the opening five minutes. Aurélie Csillag got on the end of an early cross from Ceri Holland, heading over the bar from just a yard or so out from goal.

Denise O’Sullivan immediately pressed the resulting goal kick, taking the ball away and unleashing a shot that forced a diving save from Ayaka Yamashita that was turned past the post for a corner. The Reds had several bites at the apple with a few corners in quick succession. On the second opportunity, the ball fell to Grace Fisk and her side-footed effort was denied by the base of the post.

Liverpool continue to harry Manchester City, not allowing them time on the ball to establish any sort of rhythm through the opening 30 minutes first half. The Reds continued to generate chances, though not so clear cut as the start. Manchester City did start to grow into the match later in the first half, creating a few decent chances but nothing to really trouble Jennifer Falk in net.