West Ham United Women's search for consistency in the Barclays Women's Super League continued with a 2-1 defeat away to Manchester United on Sunday. Viviane Asseyi scored a stoppage-time penalty for the visitors, but goals from Elisabeth Terland and Andrea Medina had already secured the points for the hosts at Leigh Sports Village.
Rita Guarino's side returned to league action after a midweek penalty shootout triumph over Tottenham Hotspur in the Subway Players Cup. They lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Asseyi leading the attack alongside Oona Siren. The hosts took an early lead when Terland finished from an Aana Sandberg pass in the ninth minute.
West Ham struggled to create clear chances, managing just two shots on target throughout the match, and their overall stats reflect a team that has found goals hard to come by this season. Manchester United doubled their advantage in the 72nd minute through Andrea Medina. The visitors made three substitutions in search of a response, introducing Leila Wandeler, Ebony Salmon and Ylinn Tennebo.
Late consolation
The game's final act saw West Ham awarded a penalty in added time. Asseyi stepped up and converted confidently in the 92nd minute for her second goal of the season. The result leaves West Ham with a recent form record of one win, one draw and three losses from their last five matches across all competitions, and they remain in the lower half of the standings.
Defenders Nadine Riesen and Eva Nyström received yellow cards during the second half. The team now turns its focus to a quick turnaround, with a home fixture against Southampton W scheduled for Wednesday, 30 September.
Asseyi's spot-kick means she is now West Ham's top scorer this campaign with two goals from three appearances. The team will be aiming to build on that positive individual note and secure a much-needed three points in their next outing at the Progress With Unity Stadium. The manager will be assessing the squad ahead of the midweek game, hoping for a sharper attacking performance.
