Manchester City were made to work for their sixth straight Women’s Super League victory, edging bottom side West Ham 1-0 thanks to Aoba Fujino’s first-half strike.
The Japan international scored in the 26th minute after capitalising on a defensive error, notching her third goal of the season and leaving the Hammers still searching for their first point after seven league games.
City, who remain one point behind leaders Chelsea, struggled to find rhythm but held firm against a spirited West Ham side that showed plenty of fight despite their poor form.
Viviane Asseyi came closest for the visitors when her looping effort struck the crossbar just before half-time.
At the other end, City’s Gracie Prior also hit the woodwork with a header after the break, while Riko Ueki and Shekiera Martinez both saw promising chances denied by goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita and the City defence.
Bunny Shaw and Vivianne Miedema pressed for a second goal to ease City’s nerves, but West Ham’s back line-led by Amber Tysiak and Yu Endo-defended bravely to keep the scoreline close.
Analysis: Wasteful City Survive Late ScareDespite dominating possession and creating the better chances, City lacked sharpness in front of goal.
They managed just one shot on target in the first half, the same as West Ham, highlighting a lack of composure from both sides.
Fujino’s decisive finish came after Shelina Zadorsky’s misplaced pass gifted Miedema the chance to set her up.
From there, City struggled to add to their lead, with Shaw twice blocked by last-ditch defending.
West Ham, meanwhile, showed character and attacking intent despite their long losing run.
Asseyi’s close-range effort that cannoned off the bar summed up their frustration on the night.
City’s win keeps them firmly in the title race, but manager Andrée Jeglertz will know his side must be more clinical against tougher opponents.
West Ham, though still without a point since April, can take encouragement from their resilient display.
