City had already defeated United this season, our November 2023 3-1 victory coming at Old Trafford in the WSL.
We followed it up with a 2-1 triumph over Marc Skinner’s side at the Joie Stadium on Wednesday night, a result which ensured our progress through to the knockout stages.
Houghton, who came on as a late sub in the game, was delighted with the victory and what it meant as she spoke to Natalie Pike and Karen Bardsley on Matchday Live after the game.
“It was just important to win. When you get to these cup stages – and especially against United – it’s always nice to make sure that Manchester stays blue,” she said.
“We wanted to make sure we won and we did that. The games are getting harder which is a credit to both teams.
“We always want to win so much and that one at Old Trafford was extra special because it was at their place.
“But it was good to come here and win and then that hopefully just set us on our way for Spurs away on Sunday.
“When it comes to a derby it’s got to be a bit of fight and a little bit of dig in and we certainly did that.
“We made it hard for ourselves in the last five minutes but that probably makes it a bit sweeter to be honest.
“The girls have been amazing since Christmas and even before then and we’re on a really roll now and hopefully we can do it again on Sunday.”
