HOOK OF HOLLAND
Ceri scores winner but then sees red
CERI HOLLAND clinched Liverpool’s first WSL win since the turn of the year – before being sent off in added time.
The Reds skipper struck the only goal of the game in the 53rd minute after punishing a poor clearance by Brighton keeper Sophie Baggaley.
But she failed to finish the game after picking up a second yellow card for a challenge on Julia Zigiotti in added time.
The win keeps Liverpool in fifth place, two points behind fourthplaced Manchester United.
Boss Matt Beard said: “Of course we’re happy to get the three points, especially going down to 10 players and Brighton making changes to pressure us, which we then dealt with really well.
“We deserved our lead, and could have been further in front beforehand after having a few great chances from set-pieces in the first half. We were worthy of the three points today.
“It was a good win, especially when you head into an international break. Another clean sheet too, after getting one last week.
“It means we can all go away with smiles on our faces. We wish those on duty luck and we’ll keep the others ticking over here.”
Holland was initially cautioned for a 68th-minute foul on Tatiana Pinto and Beard is convinced his captain was hard done by.
The manager added: “The first card for me was actually a great tackle, she got her body around the player and won the ball. I would need to see it back though.
“For the second one the referee needs to understand the state of the game. There was no malice in the tackle, 94th minute, heavy pitch and I don’t think it warranted a yellow.”
Brighton were undone when Baggaley directed a clearance straight to Holland and they remain second bottom.
Brighton caretaker boss Mikey Harris said: “If we had got an equaliser and it had ended 1-1, then I think that would have been a fair result.”