by Staff Writer
Friday, 29th May 2026
West Ham United Women and Manchester United Women served up an instant classic in the World Sevens tournament as United survived a late comeback to secure a dramatic 5-4 victory at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The fast-paced seven-a-side format produced relentless action from the opening whistle, with Manchester United racing into control thanks to a clinical attacking display led by Elisabeth Terland. The Norwegian forward proved unstoppable in the first half, firing home a hat-trick as United overwhelmed West Ham with sharp movement and ruthless finishing.
United’s intensity and quick transitions caused constant problems for West Ham, who struggled to contain the movement between the lines. Terland opened the scoring early before adding two more in quick succession to give Marc Skinner’s side a commanding advantage.
Despite falling behind, West Ham refused to fold. The Hammers gradually settled into the contest and began exploiting the open spaces that are characteristic of the World Sevens format. Their response turned the match into an end-to-end spectacle, with goals flowing at both ends.
Manchester United appeared to have the game under control after extending their lead to 5-2, but West Ham mounted a fierce late rally. Quick attacking combinations and aggressive pressing pulled the Hammers back within one goal, setting up a tense finish in the closing moments.
However, United managed to hold on under heavy pressure to claim an important opening victory in Group 2 of the competition. The result leaves them well placed heading into the remaining group fixtures, while West Ham can take encouragement from a spirited attacking display despite the defeat.
The nine-goal thriller perfectly showcased the entertainment of the World Sevens format, with high tempo football, constant attacking intent and dramatic momentum swings keeping supporters on the edge of their seats throughout.
West Ham United: Szemik, Hansen, Cemal, Endo, Cascarino, Asseyi, Ueki Subs: Walsh (GK), Hansen, Nyström, Zadorsky, Morgan, Siren, Tennebø, Wandeler
Goals: Morgan 10, 17, Ueki 26, Nyström 28
Manchester United: Tullis-Joyce, Sandberg, Le Tissier, Toone, Park, Terland, Naalsund Subs: Rendell, George, Lundkvist, Awujo, Zigiotti, Malard, Schuller
Goals: Malard 6, 8, Terland 7, 9, 12
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.