Manchester United edge epic over Brighton to make Women’s FA Cup final

Rachel Williams came off the bench to score a late winner for Manchester United to send them to their first Women’s FA Cup final at Brighton’s expense.

The veteran striker kept her cool to stop the game going to extra time with a minute of the 90 to go. United had dominated the fixture but gifted two goals to the visitors to make it into a dramatic cup tie but in the end the hosts had just enough to get through.

Considering Manchester United defeated the same opponents 4-0 a fortnight ago in their final match before the international break, the hosts knew they had the upper hand. United are top of the Women’s Super League and Brighton bottom, but the Seagulls have a new manager in Melissa Phillips and caused early problems on either flank without being able to pick out a target in the box.

Two-thirds of the ground was open to fans and the lines meant for rugby league matches were visible on the pitch. It did not scream out that this was the semi-final in a major competition. Old Trafford was unable to host the event because of the Manchester marathon taking place on Sunday, leaving Leigh to do the honours with neutral venues not used.

Despite their gulf in league positions, United were unable to control the game in its early stages, playing a number of passes straight to the Brighton midfield. Ella Toone had a chance inside the box but sent the ball high and into the vacant stand behind the visitors’ goal.

Lydia Williams was the first goalkeeper to be called into action after 27 minutes when Alessia Russo reacted quickest to whack a bouncing ball inside the box at goal, only to see her shot expertly tipped over the bar. It was at this stage that United were beginning to get on top, tiring Brighton through their