Skinner & Bompastor reflect on the final

Marc Skinner, Manchester United

Marc Skinner reflected on the defeat in the Subway Women's League Cup Final as Manchester United lost 2–0 to Chelsea. Skinner expressed that he was feeling “frustration really, I felt between the boxes we were better but we gave them two goals.” Skinner also emphasised Chelsea’s quality and how “they are the best at finishing half chances”.

Despite the result, the United head coach felt the contest itself was far closer than the scoreline suggested, pointing to the opportunities his team created but ultimately failed to convert. “The overriding sense is frustration. We created chances , on another day we score them, and I’ve got to find out why that is in these finals, because that’s the missing piece.”

He added that, in his view, United were not outplayed. “I don’t think they outplayed us by any means.”

However, the manager acknowledged that United continue to fall just short in the defining moments when facing Chelsea. “It’s against Chelsea that we don’t produce the moments of clarity that we need.”

Skinner rejected the suggestion that his players were intimidated by Chelsea, insisting their attacking approach proves otherwise. “There’s no fear. We don’t play how we do through to the final third if we fear Chelsea.” Instead, he suggested the issue is more about striking a balance between risk and caution. “It’s definitely not fear, it’s more about caution to the wind and not worrying.”

Lauren James was named Player of the Match, and Skinner was asked about the Chelsea number 10, explaining how his side may have given her too much respect. “You have to go toe-to-toe with her. She plays with left and right feet and there’s a risk she can go past you. There are times to be cautious and times to be aggressive.”

While United were able to build attacks, Skinner felt they lacked instinct in the penalty area. “It has to be instinctual in the box.” He admitted the lack of goals remains a personal challenge he wants to solve. “I promise before I retire it will be something I fix.”

The defeat has clearly stung inside the dressing room. “There’s frustration with the players that we haven’t scored. I’ve got a couple of upset players.” But Skinner insists he will push his squad to improve. “I’m going to challenge my players to do this.”

Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea FC

Meanwhile, Sonia Bompastor was very pleased with her team after securing another trophy. “It feels great. When you have the opportunity to play a final it’s a very special game. It’s important to win the trophy.”

With the league having only six games left in the Barclays Women's Super League season, and the quarter-finals of the UEFA Women's Champions League also approaching, Bompastor added that it was important to win today to build momentum as the season reaches its final stages. “We knew starting this block it would be an important part of the season, the business part of it. We know the mentality needed to get through this block, and winning a trophy is the best way to start it.”

Nathalie Björn had to leave the pitch less than a minute after being substituted on, having just returned from injury, leaving the pitch in tears. Bompastor gave an update on how the number 14 was after the game. “Really sad for her. It doesn’t look good but we need to assess her. It’s her calf.”

With Björn leaving the pitch, it meant there was a shuffle in the back line, but Bompastor assured she was not worried when that happened. “My job as a coach is to come into every game very prepared with many options, especially depending on how Kadeisha (Buchanan) would play. You always want to know when to make the right decision at the end of the game, especially when you win.”

Chelsea had a much lighter bench than they usually do in other games, but Bompastor explained that it is key to have a big squad in order to compete on multiple fronts. “I know how many players you really need in the squad in order to win a lot of trophies. Chelsea has always been known for having depth in the squad and that sometimes makes the difference between Chelsea and the other clubs. Having the quality and the talent helps a lot.”

Bompastor also commented on how her team are good at finishing their chances, highlighting that much of it comes from the players and the environment around them. “It comes from the players firstly. It’s about the environment and mentality we create every day. They are coming in to be the best version of themselves.”

Aggie Beever-Jones scored Chelsea’s second goal to secure the trophy, with Bompastor explaining how important it is that she stays fit and maintains her current level. “She’s now back to a very good level. She did well on international duty and she wasn’t far off starting the game.”