Powell: We didn't compete in the first half

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Manager reflects on 4-0 defeat to Manchester United in the WSL.

Bruce Talbot

2022-10-16T13:55:00Z

Hope Powell is proud of the part she has played in the development of the women's game.

Manager Hope Powell said Albion paid the price for a ‘lacklustre’ first half as they went down 4-0 to Manchester United in the WSL.

Ella Toone (2) and Leah Galton gave the hosts a 3-0 half-time lead and substitute Adriana Leon added a late fourth for United.

“They are a very strong team but in the first half we didn’t perform,” said Powell. “We were slow to respond for the first two goals and we looked a bit lacklustre.

“The players have to take responsibility for that. You’ve got to compete, to have a go and at times I thought we sat off too much. We didn’t compete physically and it was too easy for them. You can’t let good players have a free reign because you’ll be punished.”

Jorja Fox controls the ball.

Powell was pleased with Albion’s improvement after the break but the three points were gone.

“We said at half-time that if you want to compete in this league against the best players you need to show a bit of fight and I thought we did that. But ultimately they were the better team.

"We responded in the second half, and I credit our endeavour. There was a lot of effort and it shows that if we do that consistently we give ourselves a chance against any opponent.

“The players know in themselves that our performance wasn’t good enough and if they don’t we have to make it clear the high standards we expect.”