Football
24 Jan 2025
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Marc Skinner Addresses Manchester United’s WSL Title Chances

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Manchester United Women’s manager Marc Skinner has spoken candidly about his team’s title aspirations in the Women’s Super League (WSL) as they prepare to face Brighton this weekend. United, currently level on points with Arsenal but behind on goal difference, are sitting third in the table and aiming to keep pace with Chelsea, who hold a commanding seven-point lead at the summit.

United’s Position in the WSL Table

Key Victory Against Manchester City

Manchester United’s impressive 4-2 victory over rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium last weekend was a pivotal moment in their campaign. The result, powered by a stunning hat-trick from Ella Toone and a crucial goal from Leah Galton, not only solidified United’s place in the top three but also disrupted City’s own title hopes, leaving the Cityzens in fourth place.

With 24 points after 11 games, United are tied with Arsenal but trail on goal difference. Chelsea remain top of the league with a strong lead, emphasizing the challenge ahead for Marc Skinner’s team if they are to mount a serious title challenge.

Opportunity to Close the Gap

The upcoming fixtures present a chance for United and City to narrow the gap on the leaders, especially with Arsenal set to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Marc Skinner’s side, meanwhile, will host Brighton at Leigh Sports Village on Sunday evening, aiming to secure three vital points.

Marc Skinner’s Approach to the Title Race

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Manchester United’s manager Marc Skinner said the win against City was ‘special’. Photograph: Charlotte Tattersall/MUFC/Manchester United/Getty Images

Game-by-Game Focus

In a press conference held on Friday, Marc Skinner emphasized the importance of taking a game-by-game approach. He acknowledged Chelsea’s strong position but highlighted the need for United to remain competitive and maximize their points in each fixture.

“We always take each game [as it comes],” Marc Skinner stated. “Chelsea have given themselves a healthy lead. We need to try and chop away at that as best we can, but we only play them one more time so, with respect to other teams, Chelsea don’t drop many points.

“I’m sure people can foresee their path [to the title], but for us, it’s about being competitive in each game and trying to get points. That’s what we’re trying to do.”

Importance of the Brighton Clash

Marc Skinner described Brighton as a strong opponent and stressed the need for his players to deliver their best performance to secure three points. “Brighton is a very good opponent, and we have to be at our best to beat them, which would be three more points towards the goal,” he said.

Marc Skinner also highlighted United’s ambitions beyond the WSL. “We want to perform in the Champions League, of course we do. We want to try and win titles. But, right now, all we can do is focus on trying to get these points and banking them.”

Reflections on Previous Brighton Encounter

Lessons from the Draw

The last meeting between United and Brighton ended in a 1-1 draw at the Broadfield Stadium. Grace Clinton’s early goal gave United the lead, but they failed to capitalize on their advantage, allowing former United player Nikita Parris to equalize for Brighton early in the second half.

Reflecting on that performance, Marc Skinner urged his players to demonstrate the same level of ruthlessness they displayed against Manchester City. “I’m hoping that happens on Sunday [making the most of our chances],” he said. “We should have been two or three up against Brighton in the first half, and they then scored.

“I felt we should have won the game. But, with respect to the opponent, I felt they were good on the day as well. We’ve got to be prepared for that.”

Adopting a Ruthless Mentality

Marc Skinner emphasized the need to replicate the clinical finishing and dominance showcased against City. “From our perspective, we’ve got to use that Man City ruthlessness. If we do, hopefully we can take those points,” he added.

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Manchester United manager Marc Skinner / James Gill – Danehouse/GettyImages

United’s Ambitions for the Season

Eyeing Champions League Success

While the WSL title remains a challenging objective, United are also focused on securing a strong position in the league to qualify for the Champions League. Marc Skinner’s comments highlight the team’s broader goals, balancing the pursuit of domestic silverware with the desire to make an impact on the European stage.

Staying Competitive

United’s ability to remain competitive in each game will be crucial to their success. Marc Skinner’s emphasis on preparation, focus, and maximizing opportunities reflects the team’s commitment to pushing their limits in pursuit of their goals.

Conclusion

Marc Skinner’s measured approach to Manchester United’s WSL title chances underscores the challenges of overtaking Chelsea while maintaining momentum in a highly competitive league. With a critical match against Brighton on the horizon, United will need to channel the ruthlessness and determination they displayed against Manchester City to keep their title hopes alive and strengthen their position in the league. As the season progresses, Marc Skinner’s leadership and the team’s performance will be key in determining their ultimate success.

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