United Women Review | Valerenga at home

It's nice to see one United side in the Champions League

We kicked off our first ever Women’s Champions League campaign in perfect fashion with a 1-0 win over Valerenga.

Author | Olivia T

Stadium | Leigh Sports Village

Fans had been waiting for this moment for what felt like forever and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Seeing the Reds walk out onto the European stage at the Progress With Unity Stadium was a proud moment for everyone connected with the club.

Maya Le Tissier coolly converted from the penalty spot in the first half to score our first ever goal in the competition, excluding qualifiers, sealing the win after a strong and confident display from Skinner’s side.

The ever-popular Jess Park was superb for United, with the former city midfielder coming closest to doubling the score when her shot at the start of the second half was well saved.

There was just one change from the team that drew with Chelsea last Friday, as Melvine Malard, a four-time Champions League winner, came in for Fridolina Rolfo to add some European experience to the attack.

Which players stood out?

Overall, it was a decent performance from Marc Skinner’s side. We’ve selected four players below, highlighting how they impressed fans and pundits.

Maya Le Tissier | Was essentially faultless in her defensive work and scored a terrific penalty to give United the win.

Anna Sandberg | Showed plenty of endeavour up and down the left, getting through some good work in attack and defence.

Hinata Miyazawa | Moved the ball well in deeper positions to ensure United dominated and pushed on to contribute in attack from time to time, too.

Jess Park | The star player for us. She continues to impress with her fantastic footwork in tight areas and great movement. 

Next up for United

We visit Everton in the Women's Super League on Sunday 12 October before travelling to Spain to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Thursday 16 October.