Manchester United Women delivered a masterclass in attacking football as they thrashed Wolverhampton Wanderers 6-0 to book their place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. The Red Devils, reigning champions of the competition, showcased their class and depth in a performance that underlined their status as one of the top teams in women’s football. From start to finish, Marc Skinner’s side were in complete control, with goals from Elisabeth Terland, Leah Galton, Aoife Mannion, Ella Toone, and a brace from debutant Mared Griffiths sealing an emphatic victory.
Wolves’ Bright Start Quickly Fades
The match began with Wolves, buoyed by a vocal home crowd, showing early promise. The hosts pressed high and looked to disrupt United’s rhythm, creating a couple of half-chances in the opening minutes. However, it didn’t take long for United’s superior quality to shine through. Just four minutes in, Hinata Miyazawa tested Wolves goalkeeper Bec Thomas with a straightforward shot, setting the tone for what would become a relentless attacking display.
United’s first real opportunity came in the sixth minute when Leah Galton, celebrating her 150th appearance for the club, delivered a precise cutback to Ella Toone. The England international, usually so composed in front of goal, steered her effort just wide of the post. Moments later, Grace Clinton came close with a volley from Toone’s cross, but Thomas produced a stunning save to keep the scores level.
Terland Breaks the Deadlock
Despite Wolves’ early resistance, United’s pressure was unrelenting. After 19 minutes, the hosts managed a rare corner, but it was a fleeting moment of optimism in an otherwise one-sided half. United continued to dominate, with Melvine Malard causing havoc down the right flank. The French forward’s persistence paid off in the 25th minute when she set up Elisabeth Terland for the opening goal. Malard’s driving run and precise pass allowed Terland to slot home calmly, giving United the lead their dominance deserved.
Malard was at the heart of United’s attacking play and should have doubled the lead herself shortly after. A corner found her unmarked just four yards out, but she somehow skewed her effort over the bar. It was a rare miss in an otherwise clinical performance from the Red Devils.
Galton Marks Milestone in Style
United’s second goal came in the 37th minute, and it was a moment to remember for Leah Galton. The winger, making her 150th appearance for the club, picked up the ball on the left, cut inside, and unleashed a beautifully disguised shot that left Thomas with no chance. It was a fitting way for Galton to mark her milestone, and it gave United a comfortable cushion heading into the break.
The first half ended with United firmly in control, but there was a sense that more goals were to come. Malard had another golden opportunity in added time, but once again, she failed to hit the target, lifting her effort over the bar from close range.
Second-Half Onslaught
The second half began much like the first, with United on the front foot. Just five minutes after the restart, Millie Turner delivered a perfectly weighted chip to the back post, where Terland headed the ball across goal for Aoife Mannion to tap in. It was Mannion’s first goal for the club, and she celebrated with unbridled joy, a testament to the team spirit within the squad.
United’s fourth goal came in the 55th minute, courtesy of Ella Toone. The midfielder, in scintillating form this season, picked up the ball 20 yards out and unleashed a stunning strike that nestled into the bottom corner. It was a goal of the highest quality, further emphasising United’s superiority.
Griffiths Steals the Show on Debut
As the game progressed, Marc Skinner took the opportunity to rotate his squad, handing 17-year-old Mared Griffiths her debut. The young forward made an immediate impact, capitalising on a mistake by Thomas to slot home her first goal for the club in the 88th minute. Griffiths wasn’t done there, adding a second in the fifth minute of added time with a composed volley that somehow found its way past the Wolves keeper.
In between Griffiths’ brace, United thought they had added a fifth through Millie Turner, but her powerful header was ruled out for offside. Rachel Williams also came close, poking an effort just wide after a brilliant pass from Malard.
A Statement of Intent
The final whistle confirmed a comprehensive 6-0 victory for United, sending a clear message to their rivals in the FA Cup. Marc Skinner’s side were ruthless in attack, solid in defence, and relentless in their pursuit of goals. Speaking after the match, Skinner praised his team’s performance: “We were clinical when we needed to be and showed great composure throughout. It’s always special to see young players like Mared step up and make an impact, and I’m delighted for her and the team.”
The victory keeps United’s hopes of retaining the FA Cup alive, and they will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals. With a blend of experienced stars and exciting young talent, the Red Devils are well-placed to mount another serious challenge for silverware this season.
For now, though, United can bask in the glory of a dominant performance that showcased their attacking prowess and depth. As they continue their quest for more trophies, one thing is clear: this team is determined to build on last season’s success and write another chapter in their growing legacy.
