Ruby Mace scored both goals in Everton Women's 2-1 victory over Birmingham City on Sunday. The win at Walton Hall Park was the team's fourth in a row at home and lifts them into the top half of the Women's Super League table.
Mace opened the scoring in the 12th minute, converting after Yuka Momiki's effort rebounded off the post. Birmingham City responded quickly, with Oceane Hurtre equalising just three minutes later. The decisive moment came 18 minutes from time when Mace headed home Ornella Vignola's cross to complete her brace.
Manager Scott Phelan had made three changes to his starting lineup following the previous week's 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield. Yuka Momiki, Honoka Hayashi and Maz Pacheco all returned to the side. An early injury forced a further change, with Zara Kramzar replaced by Holly McNamara after half an hour.
Everton dominated possession with 60 percent of the ball and created 17 shots to Birmingham's 10. McNamara thought she had added a third in stoppage time, but her effort was ruled out by the linesman's flag. She later received a yellow card for a foul.
"After acknowledging the youthful look of his side in last week's defeat to Liverpool at Anfield Scott Phelan made three changes to his starting XI," the manager said.
The result confirms Everton's position as fifth in the FA WSL, with nine points from five games. This recent form, built on a strong home record, gives them a platform ahead of their next fixture, a trip to face Manchester United Women at Leigh Sports Village on November 17. Mace is now the team's top scorer this season with two goals.
