They were, however, not without drama. She fumbled an Arsenal corner at the death – the hosts protested wildly as she clawed the ball when it dangerously flirted with the goal line. With no Video Assistant Referee in the fifth round of the Women’s FA Cup, referee Stacey Pearson did not flinch.
Keating arguably deserved a stroke of fortune given the amount of stick that she had to put up with all game. Women’s football has often been praised – and is rightly loved – for its platonic, family-friendly atmosphere. The incessant chants of “You’re s—!” that were repeatedly hurled her way are a sad indictment of the vulgar ambiance that is increasingly being fostered across women’s grounds. In a show of pure defiance, Keating rose above it all in a coming-of-age performance with Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses manager, watching on from the stands. A first senior England cap surely beckons.
“Khiara was excellent, given what she had to deal with,” said Gareth Taylor, the City manager. “Particularly at the beginning of the game, with the verbals from the crowd. This is redemption for her.
“She’s been preparing herself all week for this. She handled it really well. Sometimes there are skeletons in the wardrobe and there are skeletons when you go to certain games – so it’s really nice when you flip it the other way.”
Keating hardly had anything to do in a low-quality first half, but then neither did her opposite number. In the build up, Leah Williamson, Arsenal’s golden girl, had spoken of her desire to poop on Manchester City’s parade – Taylor’s side headed to Boreham Wood armed with a nine-game unbeaten streak – but with their star striker Vivianne Miedema ruled out with a knee niggle, the Gunners lacked a creative outlet up front.
