Everton's Merseyside derby victory can prove a springboard for their season, according to their No1 Courtney Brosnan.

The keeper, 27, was in fine form last Sunday as the Toffees secured a 1-0 win over Liverpool in front of more than 23,000 fans at Anfield. 

Brosnan and Co went into the contest off back-to-back Women's Super League defeats, while the Reds had won both of their opening clashes — but the visitors threw the form book out of the window.

And Republic of Ireland international Brosnan is convinced the good times will keep on rolling when they host Manchester United on Sunday.

She told LiveScore: "It was really special to be able to play at Anfield and we know how important the game against Liverpool is for the club and fans.

"It was amazing to grind out the win and get a clean sheet — now we have to keep building from it.

"Everyone knows the quality Manchester United have. They're a top side who finished really high last season. 

"We don't underestimate any teams we play but you have to put your best foot forward and play the way we want to — even against top teams. 

"After the win against Liverpool, we have plenty of confidence and we'll carry that into Sunday."

Trust the process

Everton secured a top-half finish in the WSL last term during Brian Sorensen's first season in charge.

And with a sluggish start now behind them, Brosnan is convinced they can repeat the feat this time around — if not better it.

She added: "We think we can still achieve that this season. The league looks more open. 

"It's still early but we want to be in that top half and competing against the best teams because we know we're capable.

"I've really liked working under Brian so far and I'm sure a lot of the girls would say the same.

"It's nice to have this second year because last season we could all see he has a big philosophy and style he wants to play but that takes time to get used to.

"But you can see by the way we finished and some of the football we play that's it's an exciting project and great to be part of."

Luck of the Irish

Born in New Jersey, USA, Brosnan opted to represent Ireland at international level and the custodian claims it was an easy decision.

She said: "I think that family connection I have and the pride and passion I have playing for Ireland, nothing really beats it.

"I feel really blessed and grateful to have had the opportunity and I've loved my time in the team."

Brosnan's crowning moment to date came courtesy of a penalty save in a 2023 World Cup qualifying play-off with Scotland last October, which helped The Girls in Green reach their first major tournament.

Though that campaign ended at the group stage, Brosnan believes brighter days are still to come.

She said: "We got a little taste of things in the summer and that was unbelievable. It was such a proud moment for us.

"But we don't want it to just be one World Cup and that's it. We know we're capable of more and we want to consistently qualify for major tournaments."