However, the Robins’ backline folded under pressure and they made basic error after basic error to let the visitors pick up a head of steam for an eventual 7-3 win that was only 2-0 to Brighton at half-time.
Having found a way to get forward in games, Bristol pulled themselves back into the tie and at 4-3 down could have gone on to snatch a vital point (or maybe even three). But rather than roaring on, they fell apart at the back and conceded a further three goas in the last 10 minutes of the game.
Now six points adrift of safety, and with matches against the top six left in their last seven games, time looks to have all but run out for the Robins.
Unstoppable Lyon
With 15 wins from 16 games in France so far this season, Lyon are used to easing their way to victory, leaning on the sheer quality and depth of in their squad. Sunday evening’s 3-1 win over relegation-threatened Dijon was no exception.
Even after giving up a rare equalising goal before half-time, it was another routine win at the Stade Gaston-Gérard (with 76% possession and 25 shots to five) even if the champions had to wait until the final minute for Sabrina Dabritz to get her second of the game and fully wrap the result up.
Florence gain narrow advantage over Juve
Juventus struggled for fluency in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semifinal against Fiorentina as they fell to a 1-0 defeat.
Having only played out a 2-2 draw five weeks ago in Serie A, the familiarity looked to favour the hosts, who had the better of the game and struck a deserved winner through Michael Catena just after the hour.
With Roma leading the Serie A table comfortably, the lure of the Coppa Italia final and a chance at silverware should be strong for both teams, but La Viola‘s six-year trophy drought is strong motivation in itself.
Still, Fiorentina will know that Juventus will be dangerous in next week’s second leg. After such a poor showing in Florence, the Bianconere will want to prove they’re far better than this.
