Overview
- Rebecca Knaak (26'), Khadija Shaw (43') and Lauren Hemp (45+2') struck before half-time at the Etihad to decide the derby.
- Hemp marked her first start since injury with a long-range third, capping a first half that showcased City's set-piece threat and open-play control.
- Manchester United failed to register a shot on target, with Jess Park hitting the post as Safia Middleton-Patel deputised again in goal.
- City moved to 24 points, four clear of Chelsea and seven ahead of United, with Chelsea away to Liverpool on Sunday able to trim the gap.
- United arrived days after beating PSG in the Champions League and head to Wolfsburg next, as Marc Skinner noted the tight turnaround; Simi Awujo suffered a late head clash but no concussion was reported.