Nikita Parris scored a spectacular goal as Manchester United beat rivals Liverpool 1-0 in the Women's League Cup. 

The Red Devils now have two wins from their two opening games in the competition, previously beating Everton.

Just minutes before half-time, Parris had the ball with her back to goal and cut inside Missy Bo Kearns before sending a stunning strike into the net from outside the box. 

Liverpool responded by piling on the pressure in the second half — forcing goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce into a sensational save — but the visitors held on for victory. 

Elsewhere, Leicester beat Manchester City on penalties after playing out an entertaining 2-2 draw at The Joie Stadium.

The Foxes' substitute goalkeeper Janina Leitzig was brought on specifically for the shootout and she saved Steph Houghton's penalty in sudden death.

The extra point for the visitors puts them within touching distance of the two Manchester clubs in Group B.

Janice Cayman and Sophie Howard scored quick-fire goals for Leicester just before the break but City bounced back with strikes from Deyna Castellanos and Laura Coombs in the second half.

In the shootout, fine saves form Khiara Keating and substitute Leitzig took it to sudden death but Houghton was eventually denied to give the visitors two points.  

Tottenham continued their perfect start to the Conti Cup by beating fellow Women's Super League side Bristol City 3-0.

Kit Graham converted a penalty in the 19th minute before Rosella Ayane bagged an impressive brace.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa thrashed Championship side Blackburn 7-0 to secure successive victories in the competition. 

Ebony Salmon, Maz Pacheco and Simone Magill all got on the scoresheet while Alisha Lehmann and Rachel Daly both bagged braces. 

In the all WSL clash at Broadfield Stadium, Brighton eased to a 3-1 win over West Ham.

Wednesday's results in full

Brighton 3-1 West Ham

Aston Villa 7-0 Blackburn

Manchester City 2-2 Leicester (3-4 on penalties)

Liverpool 0-1 Manchester United

Charlton 1-0 Birmingham

Crystal Palace 3-0 Watford

Tottenham 3-0 Bristol City

Lewes 0-1 London City