Manchester United spoiled Everton’s first Women’s Super League game at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, maintaining their unbeaten start to the season with a battling victory.

Marc Skinner’s side, who have won four and drawn two of their opening six WSL matches, had to come from behind in front of a crowd of 18,154.

Honoka Hayashi put Everton ahead against the run of play when she pounced on Phallon Tullis-Joyce’s clearance at a corner.

It marked a historic moment as Everton’s first WSL goal at the new stadium on Bramley-Moore Dock and stunned plenty inside the ground.

United, who had dominated and created numerous chances, were held by Everton until the 62nd minute when Melvine Malard eventually equalised.

The France international raced through one-on-one with goalkeeper Emily Ramsey and put away the rebound after her strike had initially been saved.

That gave United the boost they needed and they were rewarded for their efforts when Hikaru Kitagawa’s own goal doubled their tally, before substitute Jess Park netted two late goals to finish Everton off.

The result was a welcome one for United as they put pressure on WSL leaders Chelsea in the title race with a two-point gap, while 10th-placed Everton are yet to win a game at either home stadium.