Jorelyn Carabali’s Own Goal Gives Liverpool Victory Over Brighton

Jorelyn Carabali’s late own goal handed Liverpool a hard-earned victory against Brighton in the Women’s Super League. The match marked the return of the WSL after a winter break and the Women’s FA Cup cancellations due to freezing conditions. Both teams were fighting to close the gap on the league’s traditional top four. Liverpool’s Olivia Smith produced a brilliant solo effort in the first half, sprinting almost the length of the pitch before firing past Brighton’s goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley to open the scoring.

However, Nikita Parris equalized for Brighton after the break with her shot deflecting off the goalkeeper and into the far corner. The goal was met with boos from the Liverpool fans, frustrated by missed chances. Smith came close again and substitute Mia Enderby missed a chance but Liverpool continued to press. The breakthrough came when a dangerous Liverpool attack down the right led to Jorelyn Carabali’s mistake, bundling the ball into her own net, giving Liverpool the win.

Brighton manager Dario Vidisoc expressed frustration, stating that his side lacked aggression and made simple errors. The result moved Liverpool to within five points of Brighton in the table, marking one of their strongest performances of the season. Liverpool manager Beard, watching from the stands due to a ban, praised his team’s response, particularly from debutant Sam Kerr.

Liverpool’s attacking play, especially down the right,was key to their success. Smith’s goal was the difference and the team’s performance offered hope for a “fresh start” in the second half of the season. Smith emphasized the importance of competition for places with the team eager to build on the result and make a strong push in the WSL.