Everton Women suffered a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Vitality Women's FA Cup quarter-final at the Academy Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The Blues were eliminated at the last eight stage as a Lauren Hemp scored twice as well as goals from Caroline Weir and Ellen White booked City’s place in the semi-final.
Everton struggled throughout to build any sort of momentum against an impressive City side.
The home side had the lion’s share of possession and opportunities in the first half and almost found themselves in front on several occasions.
Lucy Bronze struck Sandy MacIver’s post following a deflection in the 11th minute and five minutes later, Weir flashed a cross across the box, but MacIver was alert to tip it away from danger.
Everton’s goalkeeper was called into action once more in the 19th minute – saving brilliantly from White’s near post flick.
City continued to push and Everton’s defence was breached 11 minutes before half time when Hemp volleyed home from close range after White’s flick on.
It was a kick in teeth for Chris Roberts’ side who had look so organised and resolute throughout the first half, but the Blues looked to respond instantly – Lucy Graham’s effort creeping just past the post after a deflection off Alex Greenwood.
Aurora Galli’s resulting corner caused some confusion in the box, but Everton were unable to get a shot away on goal as the hosts cleared their lines.
Trailing 1-0 at the break, Everton were still very much in the tie, but Hemp’s magnificent finish from Weir’s corner just one minute into the second half left the Blues with a mountain to climb.
Roberts’ team struggled to gain possession and create any meaningful opportunities, as the hosts continued to dominate the ball and City were out of sight when Weir powered a stunning effort past a helpless MacIver to make it 3-0.
White scored the hosts fourth goal in stoppage time to rub salt in Everton wounds.
All focus will now turn to Wednesday, when Everton return to the Academy Stadium to face City again in the Barclays FA Women’s Super League.
