Lionesses star Ella Toone reveals how chat with Man Utd goalkeeper helped her score world-class FA Cup final goal against Tottenham at Wembley

The 24-year-old stunned the Wembley audience by embarking on a solo run from inside her own half, cutting in, and unleashing a piledriver into the top corner to give United the lead against Tottenham. Her sensational strike opened the floodgates as the Red Devils struck three more times in the second half to seal a convincing 4-0 triumph over the London side.

Reflecting on her wonder goal, Toone told Sportbible: "I have never hit one like that before. It was funny because the week before I was practicing. I always practice shooting after training. I’d been practising with Phallon (Tullis-Joyce), our keeper, and I said to her ‘What I’m really struggling with is when I’m driving with the ball and I shoot’. And then for some reason, I don’t know what happened the other day but I was driving with the ball and as soon as it left my foot I knew it was one of them that was going in. It was a great finish and one that I’m really proud of. It’s definitely up here with the best goals I’ve ever scored.”

The FA Cup victory is even sweeter as it helped Toone exorcise the bitter memories of the devastating 1-0 defeat against Chelsea in the title decider of the cup tournament in 2023.

“It’s history," she said. "We’ve been formed for six years now and every day we’re making history. From the day the women’s team was created until now, that day has gone down in history as us winning our first FA Cup. I think going from last year, getting to a final and knowing how much hard work you’ve got to put in to get there, to go again and push that little bit more and get the win feels so special.

"For me to have been at the club for six years all we ever wanted was to win a trophy. It means a lot and growing up a United fan and having those dreams of playing for the club and winning trophies is that extra bit more special.”

Toone has been an integral part of the United squad and boasts of scoring nine goals and providing nine assists in all competitions. Beyond her goal-scoring and playmaking abilities, she embodies the spirit and resilience of the team. Her ability to step up in crucial moments, as evidenced by her goal in the FA Cup final, has cemented her status as a key player for both club and country.