Manchester City extended their lead at the top of the Women’s Super League as Lauren Hemp made a dazzling return from injury in a 3-0 victory over rivals Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium.
The 25-year-old winger had missed two months with an ankle injury but came off the bench for 40 minutes against Everton before starting against United. Hemp’s performance was a reminder of her quality, capped by a thunderous strike into the top-left corner just before halftime.
City now sit four points ahead of Chelsea, who face Liverpool on Sunday.
“I absolutely loved it. It’s so nice to be back with all the girls. We showed the mentality that we needed to show,” Hemp told BBC Sport. “We got a clean sheet as well, which is so important for us, and we got the three points. It’s important we stay humble. Hopefully we’ll continue this run.”
Hemp’s Return Creates Opportunities for Shaw
With Khadija Shaw and Vivianne Miedema forming a potent partnership, City had performed well without Hemp. However, her return gives manager Andree Jeglertz more attacking options and allows rotation across a demanding season.
From the first whistle, Hemp was a constant threat, taking on full-back Jayde Riviere and delivering teasing crosses into the box. Her corner helped set up Rebecca Knaak’s opener, and she later added City’s third goal following a decisive touch from Shaw.
“Lauren is giving us something different and that’s good for us,” Jeglertz said. “Every time she has the ball she has a great left foot, but it’s her ability to engage with the full-back and create chances that makes her so valuable.”
United manager Marc Skinner also praised Hemp’s impact: “She impacts hugely anyway because she is an incredible player, but I think Jayde Riviere showed her a little too much respect.”
Boost for England Ahead of International Break
Hemp’s return comes at the perfect time as England prepare for friendlies against China and Ghana. Former England defender Anita Asante highlighted how Hemp’s presence benefits teammates, particularly top-scorer Shaw.
“We know how much impact Hemp has when she’s in the team,”
Asante said.
“Shaw fires when she’s in the team because Hemp knows how to put those players in the best places they can be clinical.”
Hemp’s goal against United was her first in the WSL this season, and her performance signals that she is ready to contribute both for City and England in the coming weeks.
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