Bristol City Women 0 – 4 Man City Women

Mary Fowler scored a fine brace as Manchester City moved six points clear at the top of the WSL with a 4-0 victory at relegated Bristol City to the Women’s Championship.

The absence of Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw was evident at times for the league leaders, who fired 30 shots at Ashton Gate, but a superb strike from Fowler (62) finally broke through Bristol City’s defences.

The Australian added a second shortly after (75), before an unfortunate own goal from Amy Rodgers (77). A late goal from Alex Greenwood on the stroke of full time sealed the victory.

This sees Man City add to what could be the biggest goal difference – now 46 to Chelsea’s 39 – despite having played two games more than the Blues, who are back in the WSL against Liverpool on Wednesday, in direct. Aerial sports.

For Bristol City, it’s an immediate return to the Championship – including Crystal Palace were promoted earlier on Sunday – and they have yet to win at home in the WSL this season.

Man City lose six points lead as Robins are relegated

Although Man City saw the best of possession and shooting, most of their first-half efforts went straight to goalkeeper Shae Yanez – Chloe Kelly, who started as number 9 in Shaw’s absence , and Laura Coombs, the main culprits.

Bristol City also had their moments on the clock. One of their best came just after half an hour when Ffion Morgan sent in a fine cross for Amalie Thestrup to finish. However, she collided with Khiara Keating, who saw that both needed medical treatment, but they agreed to continue.

Man City continued to pile up the chances after the break. Lauren Hemp – who came through the middle during the second half – clipped an effort just wide, before Fowler also had an effort saved. Laia Aleixandri then nodded.

And it took a spectacular moment to break the impasse. Fowler collected the ball in midfield, turned and headed towards the top of the area. She then fired a thunderous shot into the top corner.

Fowler was back on track with another strong finish shortly after. It was a great run to pick out Hemp’s cross and she helped the ball in with a deft touch.

Bristol City’s night got worse two minutes later when Rogers fumbled into his own net. Kelly’s cross was headed back into the middle by Hemp, with the Bristol City player sticking out a foot to inadvertently see the ball past her own goalkeeper.

And with the last kick of the match, Man City captain Greenwood sealed the victory and, most importantly, increased her team’s goal difference. She powered a header towards the top corner, which Yanez simply couldn’t keep out despite a heroic effort.

Christensen: January transfer window makes difference in relegation battle

Izzy Christiansen from Sky Sports:

“In the first half Bristol City were excellent. They showed glimpses of their resilience, teamwork throughout the season and had some real moments of quality.

“But this performance sums up their season. It’s been incredibly difficult for them, it’s sad to see them relegated, but for a team with such young players it’s invaluable exposure at this level against these players week in week out .

“Interestingly, in January they were level on points with West Ham, both on five points. West Ham were supported in the transfer window, they gained a wealth of experience in the team and it strengthened them.

“For Bristol City, they couldn’t add much in January and unfortunately that’s where they are tonight.”

Smith: We need to start looking towards next year

City of Bristol director Lauren Smith has Aerial sports: “I think we’ve been sitting at the bottom of the table this season. It’s always been a mountain to climb. Some performances we’ve been very proud of but we haven’t gotten results. We haven’t gotten any results.” featured for 90 minutes week after week and this airs at the end of the season. “

“Amélie (Thestrup) was really making our press effective and had to switch it up and change the plan a little bit (for the second half), then City came out and were more aggressive. They finally found that one and had a little turned the screw.

In the future: “We need to start looking at what next year will look like. We need to continue to build and make sure our fan base is as amazing next year as it is now. We will look to continue this trend and generate enthusiasm.

“We often talk about the journey. This is part of this journey for them. We have two more games and many seasons to come. Everything they have done this season they can be proud of and that is the experience. If it makes them better, that’s part of the development we’re doing here.”

And after?

City of Bristol are back Aerial sports next Sunday as they travel to Chelsea; kick-off at 6:45 p.m. Their final match will see them host Everton May 18; kick-off at 3 p.m.

It’s a huge game for Man City next weekend as they host Arsenal on Sunday; kick-off at 2:15 p.m. The final day of the season – which could decide the destination of the WSL title – visit to Man City Aston Villa; kick-off at 3 p.m.