WOMEN'S TEAM

Everton Held To Draw Against Birmingham

Everton picked up a point in the Barclays FA Women's Super League on Friday evening as the Blues were held to a goalless draw at St. Andrew's.

It was a dominant performance from the visitors who controlled most of the contest, but were unable to cut through City's formidable defence.

The Toffees started on the front foot, pressing the hosts high into their own half.

Kenza Dali came close to opening the scoring after a brilliant run and pass from teammate Aurora Galli.

The number seven’s shot lacked power though and arrived into the arms of Emily Ramsey in the Birmingham net.

Toni Duggan stepped up next as she looked to capitalise on a mistake from Birmingham’s Libby Smith as she intercepted a pass back to the goalkeeper.

Duggan took the ball round Ramsey, however the angle proved too tight as her shot went just wide of the post.

The home side saw their best opportunity of the first half come after a rare attack on 19 minutes.

Veatriki Sarri showed good skill on the left flank and crossed a dangerous ball into the box which found Smith, but the winger was only able to drag her shot wide.

Everton continued to probe for a deserved goal, with Izzy Christiansen’s coming close with a spectacular effort.

The midfielder shot from range on 41 minutes and forced Ramsey to tip the dipping effort over the bar to maintain the stalemate.

Everton's dominance continued after the break as they looked to control possession and find a deserved opener.

Full-backs Leonie Maier and Danielle Turner linked up well as the German international whipped the ball into Turner at the far post.

The 30-year-old rose to meet it with Ramsey again denying Evertron entry to the Birmingham net.

The Blues came agonisingly close again to an opener on 76 minutes.

Dali whipped the ball into the box from the corner flag as Lucy Graham connected with it, however, Ramsey again was called into action for the hosts and gathered the effort.

A point on Friday evening mathematically guarantees that Everton will compete in the top-flight once again next season as they look to build towards the new campaign in their final three outings this season.

The women's side return to action in three weeks following the international break when Arsenal make the journey to Walton Hall Park on Sunday 24 April.