Deyna Castellanos’ first WSL strike handed the hosts the lead in a cagey first half, but Kirsty Hanson’s quickfire response ensured the points were shared at the Academy Stadium.
Although City continued to push for the advantage, particularly in the latter stages, our efforts would ultimately be in vain as we dropped points for only the second time in 13 matches.
And the boss conceded that his team were slightly off colour against the Villans.
“It’s not one of our best [performances], I think we looked a bit flat from the start,” Taylor reflected.
“We scored a good goal and then obviously the concentration was poor [to concede].
“We couldn’t get the symmetry and combination right apart from the final 15/20 minutes.
“Villa had some attempts, too many for our liking, but it was important not to lose as much as a point isn’t what we wanted.
“Today’s performance is a point we appreciate.”
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While not hiding away from the result, Taylor did point out that his team’s below-par display was an exception to the rule.
City are unbeaten in all competitions since September, and while the boss was frustrated not to claim maximum points against Carla Ward’s side, he felt that was an important run to maintain in the context of the season.
“We haven’t seen them, as a team, perform to their best level today but I think they’ve been good in general results have been really good.
“The important thing was not to lose today, that’s key.
“As much as the margins in the WSL are so tight with points, you’ve got to be flawless.
“This one’s frustrating because we got ourselves into a decent position but we’re capable.”
