Everton slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Brighton and Hove Albion at Goodison Park in the WSL.
Jelena Cankovic’s 41st minute strike proved the difference in the contest, with the Blues unable to find a way back into the game despite a much better second-half showing.
Everton had the better of the early moments, with Toni Payne creating the most presentable chance of the opening stages. The winger sent a dangerous low ball across the face of goal, but Hikaru Kitagawa was just inches away from getting the final touch at the far post.
However, it was the visitors who found the breakthrough in the 41st minute after a fairly cagey first half. Kiko Seike got to the byline and pulled the ball back into the box, where Cankovic was on hand to finish from close range.
The Blues came out with more energy after the break and almost levelled things up early in the second half. Payne was quick to react to a slipping goal kick from Chiamaka NNadozie, but the keeper recovered well to make the save straight down the middle
Everton continued to push as the half went on and came close again late in the game. With around ten minutes remaining, a series of substitutions nearly paid off when Melissa Lawley saw her shot blocked inside the area. The ball fell to Maz Pacheco, but her effort at the near post was met by a quick reaction save to keep Brighton in front.
Despite some late pressure, Everton couldn’t quite find the breakthrough they were looking for, as Brighton held on for the win.
The Blues will have another chance to get their first home win of the season when they return to Goodison Park on Sunday to face Aston Villa.
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