Phallon Tullis-Joyce Marc Skinner Man Utd Aston Villa WSLGetty/GOAL

Phallon Tullis-Joyce saves Man Utd again! USWNT hopeful's classy goalkeeping earns Red Devils undeserved draw vs Aston Villa as Ella Toone struggles & fans turn on Marc Skinner

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  • Man Utd held to a goalless draw
  • Aston Villa dominate Skinner's side
  • Solid Tullis-Joyce keeps Man Utd level
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    On paper, Manchester United were up against a very unimpressive Aston Villa as Robert de Pauw's side have failed to win so far this season in the Women's Super League. However, right from kick-off, Villa controlled the game at Leigh Sports Village. The visiting side were met by ferocious support for United yet the voices soon died down as Villa bossed possession and pushed for the opening goal.

    United got off to a nervy start as Phallon Tullis-Joyce's risky attempt to play out from the back was countered by Villa striker Gabi Nunes, who managed to get a tackle in on the goalkeeper right in front of goal. Luckily for Tullis-Joyce, the ball bounced awkwardly back into her grasp, and she learned from the mistake.

    The hosts' first chance of the game fell to Melvine Malard, who failed to keep her header on target after rising across Anna Patten. As Marc Skinner's side looked to start gaining more control of the game, Villa tried to slow the game down, a tactic that worked in their favour as they regained control of the midfield, but there was to be no breakthrough before the half-time interval.

    The start of the second half did not see much improvement from United, with Aston Villa once again keeping the ball for long spells and forcing the issue in attack. The visitors managed to create a number of chances but could find no way past the solid and determined Tullis-Joyce.

    At the other end, United almost stole a winner when Jayde Riviere and substitute Geyse combined to great effect, however, Ella Toone was unable to turn over the Brazilian's cross towards goal and finish the move. The Lionesses star had an afternoon to forget in front of goal and so did United, who remain unbeaten in the WSL this season but have now drawn their last three and sit seven points behind leaders Manchester City.

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  • Phallon Tullis-Joyce Man Utd Women 2024-25Getty Images

    THE MVP

    USWNT hopeful Tullis-Joyce has been impressive so far this season since taking over the gloves from Mary Earps. The 28-year-old had a scruffy start to the game but showed great character to bounce back. Tullis-Joyce showed classy handling skills throughout the game and commanded her box well to deal with wave after wave of Villa attacks.

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    THE BIG LOSER

    Skinner's set-up at Leigh Sports Village came under much scrutiny against Aston Villa as pressure continues to build on the United boss. A large section of home fans could be heard chanting 'Skinner Out' as they showcased their unhappiness with the team's poor performance. His substitutions on the night were also largely unimpressive and predictable, with the likes of Geyse and Rachel Williams coming off the bench to try and rescue the game.

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  • WHAT COMES NEXT?

    Manchester United will return to action against Leicester City at King Power Stadium on November 17. Skinner will be desperate for a win to get the critics off his back as the Red Devils aim to close the gap on early-season pacesetters City, and reigning champions Chelsea in second place.

  • MATCH RATING (OUT OF FIVE): ⭐⭐

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