Having already secured a place in the top 12, United’s aim was to break into the top four or ensure they had a seeded draw for the two-legged play-offs, which would give them a home tie first.
They had disappointed against eight-time champions Lyon a week before, losing 3-0, and had to come from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Tottenham in the Women’s Super League last Sunday.
It was clear United were keen to avoid similar trouble this time around and were quick out of the blocks, winning several set-pieces before Park’s excellent strike bent into the top right corner.
Skinner’s side played with the intensity necessary against Juventus, who had started the evening in third place in the table.
At the heart of it was England international Park – a summer signing from Manchester City with prior Champions League experience – and she was a constant threat for Juventus’ backline.
She had several shots that were deflected wide and a breakaway which she couldn’t take advantage of in the first half, but played her role well before coming off in the 72nd minute.
Dominique Janssen was also a solid replacement at right-back for the injured Jayde Riviere and was not afraid to push up when United were on the attack.
Overall, it was a pleasing display to end a busy period for Skinner, who has had to rotate his small squad, to which he hopes to add depth in January’s transfer window.
United have achieved their ambitions of reaching the next phase in their debut season of the competition and in Skinner’s words, anything else is “a bonus”.
