An Amy Turner own goal saw Tottenham suffer a surprise 1-0 defeat to lowly Reading in the WSL at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Turner's unfortunate header in the 11th minute proved costly as Spurs were outplayed by an impressive home team who moved seven points clear of the drop zone with the win. Rehanne Skinner's team did eventually improve, but failed to take advantage of a Reading squad that has been struck by a flu outbreak this week.
Spurs created chances towards the end of the second half, but equally could have easily found themselves two goals down had it not been for a superb Becky Spencer save from Reading's Sanne Troelsgaard Nielsen. Here are the player ratings as Tottenham fell to a fourth WSL defeat of the season.
Player Ratings
REBECCA SPENCER - Given her first start since the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City over a month ago, Spencer did well and could do little about the opening goal. Made one of the saves of the season from Troelsgaard just after half-time. 7
AMY TURNER - There's always an element of misfortune with any own goal. But Turner will know herself she should have done more to prevent the Reading opener. Improved as the game went on. 5
MOLLY BARTRIP - The former Reading defender enjoyed a disappointing return to Berkshire, pulled out of position on a regular basis when the hosts threatened on the break. Did make a crucial sliding challenge near the end to stop a goalscoring opportunity. 5
SHELINA ZADORSKY (C) - Made some crucial defensive headers and clearances when Tottenham were on the back foot. 6
ASMITA ALE - Failed to drive her team forward and looked reluctant to get high up the pitch. Was replaced as part of the triple change. 4
ANGHARAD JAMES - Failed to cope with Reading's high tempo in the first half when she was not at her best. Improved after the break but one to forget for James. 5
EVELIINA SUMMANEN - Was instrumental in driving the Tottenham press in the first half but did give the ball away too easily at times. 5
DREW SPENCE - Constantly got between the lines and created chances, just let down by her final ball occasionally . Sadly for Spurs her teammates were often not on the same wave length. 7
ASHLEIGH NEVILLE - Got no change at all out of Reading wing-back Faye Bryson who was outstanding. Continued to try and be positive with the ball but it was a tough afternoon for the 29-year-old. 5
ROSELLA AYANE - Given a first WSL start of the season Ayane failed to take her opportunity. Never in the game before half-time and made things too easy for the admittedly excellent Reading defence. 4
JESSICA NAZ - Did well to stay involved in the contest, considering the poor service she received. Brilliant work just before half-time nearly created an equaliser for Ash Neville. Snatched at chances as the game went on. 6
Subs - KERYS HARROP - 6
CELIN BIZET ILDHUSOY - 5
CHIOMA UBOGAGU - 6
NEW! Our Year: European Champions 2022 - The Official England Winners Book
With a foreword by England manager Sarina Wiegman, this is the only official book of the historic triumph, reliving every kick of a thrilling tournament and telling the stories of the players who made it all happen.
Order from https://reachsportshop.com/book/our-year-european-champion-2022/
