Women’s Super League: talking points from the weekend’s action

During a match that, in general, will not be remembered for its quality, there was one moment of magic that earned Manchester United their fifth league win in a row. Elisabeth Terland’s instinctive volley in the sixth minute at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was the sole highlight of 90 minutes that offered little in terms of creativity. The Norwegian forward has formed a habit of scoring against Spurs in the two-and-a-half years since she arrived in England. Her goal on this occasion took her tally against the club to six in the league, the most she has managed against any opponent. With Spurs continuing to look disjointed, Marc Skinner’s side dominated despite registering only two shots on target. Injuries to Dominique Janssen and Jayde Riviere in the second half will be a worry for United as they continue in their race for a Champions League spot. SD

Everton continued with a “new year, new me” attitude by beating Leicester 4-1 at Walton Hall Park. Brian Sørensen’s side are unbeaten in their past four WSL home games and this was the first time this season they have scored more than two goals in a game. Kelly Gago scored twice, taking her tally to three since joining from Nantes in January. “Kelly is in the right places,” Sørensen said. “I spoke to her a lot about making double movements when she gets free in the box. She did that today and it’s really good to see.” The France international was all over the game, her link-up play with Toni Payne paying off in particular. Moving up to eighth and away from the danger zone will make this a particularly sweet win. RO

Aston Villa would have been hoping to turn a corner under their new manager, Natalia Arroyo, and gave a robust display. However, Chelsea found a way, as formidable teams usually do. Mayra Ramírez’s display as a 66th-minute substitute caused havoc down the right and her cross was diverted by Sarah Mayling into her own net. The hard-fought win extends Chelsea’s unbeaten streak under Sonia Bompastor to 21 games. “When you are not able to perform at 100%, you always have to find a way to win the game,” the coach said. “The best teams have the power to do that.” RO