Everton player ratings as Blues punished by slow start against Brighton

Everton's first Women's Super League (WSL) game of the season ended in defeat as Brighton & Hove Albion ran out 2-1 winners at Walton Hall Park.

It was a nightmare start for the hosts, with Elisabeth Terland on hand to nod home the rebound after Katie Robinson's fourth-minute strike careened off the crossbar. Terland doubled Brighton's advantage just ten minutes later, slotting coolly past Emily Ramsey after an inch-perfect through ball from Robinson.

Nicoline Sorensen came close to pulling one back for Everton when her powerful effort skimmed off the crossbar before heading wide from an excellent Nathalie Bjorn delivery into the box minutes later. The Blues were much improved after the break, with summer signing Martina Piemonte drawing a smart save from Sophie Baggaley after rising to meet Hannah Bennison's corner.

New club captain Megan Finnigan halved the deficit with a composed finish on the 65 minute mark but the Blues were unsuccessful in their pursuit of a late leveller and find themselves at the foot of the table ahead of next weekend's trip to Leicester City.

How to order your copy of our new monthly special Women's Football News

'Refreshing' Brian Sorensen has made good on Everton prediction as culture shift continues

Katrine Veje - 7

Made some important early interceptions from Lee Geum-Min. Everton's best defender in the first half and injected plenty of energy down the left flank. Subbed.

Nathalie Bjorn - 6

Turned too easily for Brighton's second goal but played a crucial role in driving Everton forward. Almost set Sorensen up with a delightful ball into the box in the first half.

Hanna Bennison - 6

Bullied off the ball a little too easily in the first half but, like many of her teammates, improved after