Goals from Jackie Groenen and Mandy Islacker handed the visitors a strong first half lead and although the Blues produced a spirited second half display, halving the deficit through Nikita Parris, the German outfit hung on for the win.
The clash provided another tough test against strong and experienced opposition, ahead of City’s upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Fortuna Hjorring in March.
The Blues started brightly but conceded against the run of play, as Groenen robbed Keira Walsh of possession in the final third, drove forward and drilled into the bottom corner.
Parris almost levelled the score but was thwarted by Desiree Schumann, and the visitors almost doubled the advantage – only for Islacker blazed over.
Steph Houghton then saw a trademark free-kick well saved, before Frankfurt extended their lead just after the half-hour mark, when a corner caused chaos and Islacker pounced to convert from close range.
Izzy Christiansen and Toni Duggan both had chances to claw City back into the game but to no avail before the break. However, Nick Cushing’s side came flying out of the blocks in the second half.
Christiansen spurned a glorious chance to score four minutes after the restart, rounding the ‘keeper but firing wide, while Duggan and Jane Ross were also unsuccessful with a long-range effort and a chest-and-volley.
Duggan then did well to weave her way into the box but drilled off-target, before the Blues pulled a goal back with 15 minutes of normal time remaining as Parris collected Christiansen’s superb through-ball and coolly slotted home.
Another Houghton free-kick in injury time provided City’s best chance to salvage a draw but Schumann saved well to ensure her side held on for victory.
City kick-off the 2017 campaign against Danish outfit Fortuna on 23 March. The second leg takes place at the Academy Stadium on 30 March. Cheer Cushing’s side on to the semi-finals!
