Middlesbrough Women returned to winning ways with a commanding 5-0 victory over Sunderland AFC Women in the FA WNL Cup on Sunday 6 September 2026.
Joe Lillie's side dominated from the start, creating multiple chances in the opening half. Early opportunities fell to Sarah Burn, Ellie Christon and Olivia Watt, though the Sunderland goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep the score level at half-time.
Second-half breakthrough
The breakthrough came minutes into the second half when Burn delivered a low cross and Becky Ferguson fired into the bottom corner to give Boro the lead.
Ferguson extended the advantage from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box. Maxwell then scored twice in quick succession — first with a cross that wrongfooted the Sunderland keeper, then with a composed finish after a pass from Leanna Giles.
Five-goal haul
Ellen Turnbull completed the scoring in injury time with a header from Maxwell's deep cross, giving Boro their fifth goal of the afternoon.
Lillie made changes late in the match, bringing on Bell, Skelton and Chapman as Middlesbrough eased to victory after a disappointing loss to Derby the previous week.
