Brian Sorensen has highlighted the disparity between Everton and Manchester United after the 2-0 defeat in the Women’s Continental League Cup in midweek.
The Red Devils, who have only conceded two goals in their opening nine WSL games this season, dominated proceedings at Walton Hall Park where a Courtney Brosnan own goal followed by a Maya Le Tissier screamer sealed the three points.
There’s also a stark difference in revenue between the two teams. According to the Deloitte Football Money League (DFML) report United generated £6.7 million last season whereas Everton pulled in £1.1 million.
Nevertheless, Sorensen praised the performances of those who stepped up.
He said: “They did everything they could, and the young girls did really well under the circumstances. It was a bit like David against Goliath.
“We don’t have the squad to keep up with the fixtures, but Manchester United do. They changed seven or eight players, for players who play at a national level. Whereas we had to call up players from the lower divisions. That’s the difference.”
With women’s football now heading into an international break, the Dane said: “The break has come at a good time. We have a few who are playing a friendly or two, but the majority will get a lot of down time, and we can get everyone freshened up.”
Manchester United boss, Marc Skinner, was full of praise for his counterpart, saying: “Brian does an exceptional job with the tools that he’s got. He’s got some really good players, but he’s had some injuries, and I feel for him in that sense because it’s not easy.
“I still think they’ve got lots and lots of quality and think he’s the absolute right person to find the best out of that group.”
🗣️ "The girls did everything they could in terms of putting effort in and making sure United did not have big chances. Credit to the girls for all their hard work."
📺 Brian Sorensen spoke to evertontv after last night's narrow defeat to Manchester United. pic.twitter.com/fN87BgW4dm
— Everton Women (@EvertonWomen) November 21, 2024
The result keeps Manchester United top of Group A of the Women’s Continental League Cup, and thanks to the bonus point gained in their draw to Newcastle, Sorensen’s side maintain second place. Liverpool and Newcastle will face off on Sunday afternoon however, with either side able to move above the Blues.
In the Women’s Super League, Everton return from the international break on the December 8 against a Spurs side who have lost five of their last six games in the league. A win would move the Merseyside team above their hosts, who currently sit in seventh place.
