Determined Durham secure three points with Liverpool defeat

A superb solo effort from Emily Roberts ensured three points for Durham as they beat Liverpool 2-0 in a battle at the top of the FA Women’s Championship.

Molly Sharpe gave the North East side the lead on the stroke of half time before Roberts struck decisively with 20 minutes to go to settle the outcome.

This was an eagerly-anticipated clash as second hosted third, and there was a sense that both sides knew the first goal may be crucial as the game started at pace.

A delighted Durham goalscorer Sharpe said: “It was unbelievable from the girls, it’s such a good result for us.

“Liverpool are a top side but we showed passion today and really deserved that result.

“It shows we’re not here to be average, we want to win this league and go to the top league. It is what we are fighting for.

“Conceding three in the first half last week is something that hasn’t happened to us for a long time so the clean sheet helped us reset.

“We didn’t want them to play through the middle as they are strong there. The main thing was for everybody to win their battles.

“If we did that, we’d win the game and that’s what happened. I’m really proud of the girls and we’re just going to keep pushing on.”

Liverpool boss Vicky Jepson felt the first goal came at a crucial time.

“Goals change games and their first goal certainly changed the game for them – the momentum swung. I thought Durham were incredible in the way they fought and showed real determination and grit to control their lead.”