Lena Petermann got the only goal as Leicester earned a narrow Women’s Super League win against Everton at King Power Stadium.
Summer arrival Petermann’s second-half strike gave Leicester manager Willie Kirk victory over his old club.
Everton’s Justine Vanhaevermaet had a penalty saved by Petermann’s fellow German Janina Leitzig at the end of the first half.
The Foxes made it two wins from two to jump to the top of the early standings, though Liverpool could join them if they beat Aston Villa later.
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These teams traded blows in the early minutes, with Everton’s Martina Piemonte testing Leitzig with an early shot on target.
Leicester were in confident mood after their impressive win over Bristol City on the opening day, and they almost took the lead when Petermann pressed and robbed Emily Ramsey in her area, only to miss the target with her resulting strike.
Missy Goodwin went close twice soon after, shooting wide from a low cross before testing Ramsey when Shannon O’Brien dispossessed the Everton goalkeeper again.
The Foxes were springing forward at every opportunity and pinning the Toffees back.
Everton settled as the half went on and had the chance to go in front in stoppage time after being awarded a rather innocuous penalty for a foul on Piemonte. Vanhaevermaet saw her spot-kick and rebound attempt saved brilliantly by Leitzig.
As the game went on, Leitzig’s influence grew. Everton started the second half as Leicester did the first, exploiting space high up the pitch. Lucy Hope became the latest player to be denied by the goalkeeper.
With just over 20 minutes remaining, Leicester opened the scoring. Moments after Goodwin was denied by Ramsey, Petermann slotted home from Sam Tierney’s pinpoint through ball.
Emma Bissell thought she had levelled for Everton with six minutes remaining, but the assistant referee’s flag summed up a frustrating afternoon.
Foxes look stronger at both ends
Petermann has made an excellent start to life at Leicester after a goal at Ashton Gate last week. Her home debut showcased her potency but also the ability for her side to play through the pitch in attack due to her presence.
Leicester were the better team from the start, but Everton had their fair share of chances and it could have been a different game had she not been at her best.
