Second-half Duisburg surge hits Everton

FCR 2001 Duisburg have a substantial advantage to take into next Wednesday's UEFA Women's Champions League quarter-final return after Kozue Ando's second-half opener and two Alexandra Popp goals gave them victory at Everton.

Tournament top scorer Inka Grings was unable to start due to illness and Linda Bresonik was also out for Duisburg. But Ando found a way through on 52 minutes and Popp struck either side of Natasha Dowie's header.

Everton, in their first quarter-final, held out comfortably in the opening half but lapses after the break cost them dear. Ando struck when she intercepted a clearance 20 metres out, set her sights and lobbed England goalkeeper Rachel Brown.

Seven minutes later Everton lost the ball near their box and Popp pounced to double the lead. Dowie swiftly headed in a Jody Handley cross but Duisburg had the last word when Lindsay Johnson's pass inadvertently went to Popp, who slotted in from inside the area.

Duisburg, the 2009 champions, are in position to set up a rematch of last year's semi-final with compatriots and holders 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam, who themselves go into their home second leg with FCF Juvisy Essonne 3-0 up."Spirits were high for us at the end of the game," Popp said. "We're happy to have scored three away goals."

While Dowie thought Everton "were the better team", manager Mo Marley said: "Duisburg's a great team, but the disappointment comes from our mistakes, the unforced errors. We've been punished by some sloppy play. But you have to believe [in going through], it'll be a brand new game next week. It'll be tough but we have to take confidence from today's game."