Shaw on target but City denied late in PSG stalemate

Jamaica striker Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw looked set to fire Manchester City Women to their first UEFA Women’s Champions League victory of the campaign, but a late equaliser from Tara Elimbi Gilbert earned Paris Saint-Germain Women (PSG) a 1-1 draw at the Joie Stadium yesterday.

Shaw broke the deadlock in the 85th minute, coolly converting a penalty after winning the spot kick herself with a driving run into the PSG area. The Reggae Girl appeared to have secured all three points for the hosts, who had controlled large portions of the contest and created the better chances.

However, City’s lead lasted only three minutes as Gilbert raced onto a through ball and slipped her finish past goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita to snatch a share of the spoils for the French side.

The result leaves City still searching for their first win of this season’s Champions League league phase despite remaining unbeaten. The English club has now recorded three successive draws in the competition.

Shaw was City’s most dangerous attacking threat throughout the evening, going close on several occasions before eventually finding the net. The Jamaican forward headed wide early, fired a half-volley just off target and forced a fine save from PSG goalkeeper Oliwia Szperkowska as City pressed for the breakthrough.

The hosts dominated possession and territory for long spells, finishing with a significant advantage in possession and shots on target, but were repeatedly frustrated by a disciplined PSG defence.

City manager Andree Jeglertz’s team appeared on course for a valuable European victory when Shaw converted from 12 yards, only for PSG to respond almost immediately and silence the home crowd.

For Shaw, the goal continued her strong form at club level, but the late setback ensured Manchester City had to settle for a point from a match they largely controlled.