Everton Women were beaten 3-0 by Manchester United in a Continental Cup group stage clash at Southport FC on Sunday.

The Toffees were aiming to build on an impressive 2-0 WSL success against Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend, but an in-form United side emerged victorious as they wrapped up a fifth straight win.

Everton were dealt a further blow in the game’s dying moments when prolific forward Chloe Kelly was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

United hit the front when teenage forward Lauren James crashed in a left-footed shot on 22 minutes.

Katie Zelem effectively sealed the contest from the penalty spot with 12 minutes remaining after a foul on James and the away side wrapped up their success with a goal from defender Amy Turner three minutes from the end.

Everton, who lost their opening Continental Cup game at Birmingham City, welcome Manchester City to Southport for their next fixture in the competition on 21 November – but before then have the small matter of this season's first Merseyside derby at Anfield next Sunday.