Katie Zelem got the Reds up-and-running after 30 seconds when she curled a spectacular effort into the top corner before Lauren James doubled United’s lead just before the half-hour mark with another brilliant solo effort.
James then won a penalty shortly before half-time, which Ella Toone converted to score her sixth goal in three games. Mollie Green added a fourth after the break with a fine header from close range as Casey Stoney’s side closed to within two points of the summit in the FA Women’s Championship.
After United progressed to the quarter-finals of the SSE Women’s FA Cup by beating London Bees 3-0 at the weekend, Stoney made four changes to her starting XI with Amy Turner, Katie Zelem, Leah Galton and Lauren James coming into the fold.