Man Utd women’s player ratings vs Arsenal: Super-sub Melvine Malard maintains Red Devils’ unbeaten WSL record after midfield stars Ella Toone and Grace Clinton fail to fire
Marc Skinner's substitutions proved the difference on Sunday as his side earned a point from a game they were largely second-best in
FAST DOWNLOAD
Melvine Malard’s late equaliser preserved Manchester United’s unbeaten start to the Women’s Super League season in a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Arsenal.
It was all hands on deck for the Red Devils as the visitors dominated vast swathes of the contest on Sunday afternoon, and the Gunners deservedly went ahead as former United striker Alessia Russo swept home shortly after the hour mark.
Marc Skinner made wholesale changes in the second half and eventually they paid off as substitute Malard bagged a crucial equaliser eight minutes from time.
On manager Skinner’s 100th game in charge, his side dug deep to secure a result in their biggest test of the season. They now have three wins and two draws from their opening five fixtures.
GOAL rates Manchester United’s players from Leigh Sports Village…
-
Getty Images SportMidfield
Lisa Naalsund (5/10):
Was arguably the weakest link in United’s midfield in the first half and she gave the ball away too often. Was hooked at the break.
Dominique Janssen (6/10):
The Dutch player was part of a midfield that was outnumbered and seemingly always on the back foot.
Ella Toone (6/10):
The England international’s flair and creativity was kept under wraps as Arsenal stifled United’s attack for long periods of the encounter. Replaced on the hour mark.
-
-
Getty Images SportAttack
Celin Bizet (6/10):
Was moved further forward from right-back to make the most of her crossing ability and attacking talents, but didn’t get many chances to do that, ironically.
Elisabeth Terland (6/10):
Other than a decent header on goal, the former Brighton striker had a tough afternoon as most of her work involved chasing Arsenal’s shadows.
Grace Clinton (5/10):
The talented England international had to feed off scraps throughout the match and lost the ball on a number of occasions.
-
Getty Images SportSubs & Manager
Simi Awujo (7/10):
Didn’t quite get everything she did right but gave United’s midfield more bite after coming on at half-time.
Melvine Malard (8/10):
Showed some brilliant flashes of skill and got a decisive header late on to secure her team a priceless point.
Jayde Riviere (7/10):
Got a lot right when she came off the bench with an abrasive and battling display.
Geyse (8/10):
Made some powerful driving runs from the back to relieve the pressure and was a real threat in attack.
Rachel Williams (7/10):
The super-sub was physical off the bench and held the ball up well, while it was her header which led to the goal.
Marc Skinner (7/10):
His team were outclassed for long periods in what was their toughest test of the season and just when it looked like they wouldn’t pass it, his substitutes changed the game.
