Hours after City were crowned WSL champions, ending a six-year dominance by Chelsea, news broke of Shaw’s imminent exit and a breakdown in negotiations.
All eyes were on her as she ran out at Stamford Bridge to warm up next to City’s supporters and she applauded them enthusiastically.
It did not go to plan initially on the pitch as Chelsea’s dominant start gave them a deserved lead and chances came Shaw’s way, which she squandered.
Just before half-time, fear struck over a potential injury as she received treatment for several minutes after a heavy knock.
As she trudged over to the touchline, Chelsea supporters chanted: “Bunny Shaw, we’ll see you next season.”
But those same supporters were silenced when Shaw’s strike flew past goalkeeper Hannah Hampton in the 92nd minute, moments after team-mate Mary Fowler had made it 2-1, and she ran to the corner, knee-sliding and roaring in celebration.
City fans showed their adoration in abundance and Shaw’s team-mates urged her to lap up the attention at the end of extra time after her header ensured a 3-2 victory.
It was the perfect snapshot of what Shaw is capable of – even when not at her best, she still scored twice and stepped up in the biggest moments.
“That is what we need a forward to do, to create chances, maybe miss one but move on and continue,” said manager Andree Jeglertz.
“Bunny has scored so many goals for this club in so many years and this season also. She has shown she is a great player but also a great team-mate.”
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