NewsMissy Bo Kearns: Let's build on derby display when we face United

The midfielder was a key figure in Wednesday night’s 2-1 Continental League Cup result at Everton Women, playing the full 90 minutes and having a big hand in both Reds goals.

First, her fifth-minute corner delivery was converted by Sophie Roman Haug, then early in the second half her dangerous free-kick effort toward the top corner led to a rebound finished by Yana Daniels.

“We want to win every derby but finally we’ve got a result that we’ve wanted and I think the performance goes with it,” Kearns said post-match.

“I think we controlled the majority of the game. Probably got a bit sloppy [in] the last five minutes to concede, but we got the win and that’s all that matters sometimes.”

The squad’s attentions are now on another clash of rivals, with Matt Beard’s team travelling to Manchester United Women in the Barclays Women’s Super League this weekend.

“Every game means the same to us, you’ve got to pick up points when you play,” Kearns said of the 12.15pm GMT kick-off at Leigh Sports Village.

“It doesn’t matter whether there’s a Christmas break coming or it’s the start of the season, points matter. You only get to play so many games so we need to pick up three points.

“It’s Manchester United, it’s another derby in a sense. Build on what we’ve done [against Everton] and we want another win.”

Roman Haug’s opener versus the Blues was the Norway striker’s fourth goal for Liverpool since she signed during the summer.

Describing what it’s like to link up with the No.10, Kearns said: “She’s one of those players, if you hit the space you know she’s always there. She doesn’t attack the ball, she makes the runs and knows where to be.

“She’s an out-and-out striker and the way she’s fitting in, it’s like she’s been playing in this league for years. I’m made up for her.”

Beard has spoken on several occasions this season about the importance of having strong competition for places throughout his team.

And Kearns is embracing the increased challenge for game time that brings.

“Obviously I’m a footballer, I want to play as many minutes as possible. But I’m just working hard and doing everything I can to be getting in the team,” she finished.

“All you can do is look after your own performances; the team has been doing well so you can’t really complain. As long as the team is doing well and I’m applying myself properly in training, when I do get the opportunity that’s it for me.”