Ladies: Arsenal 0-0 Birmingham - Report

 By Lloyd Webb at Meadow Park

Summary

Arsenal were held to a goalless draw against a resilient Birmingham City side at Meadow Park on Sunday afternoon.

The Gunners were lucky to go into the break level, as former Arsenal striker Freda Ayisi rattled the bar before a goalmouth scramble ensued.

Arsenal were restricted to long-range efforts in the second half and although Dominique Janssen hit the woodwork in added time, the hosts were unable to break the deadlock.

Setting the scene

Pedro Martinez Losa made one change to his side following the 2-1 victory at Reading.

Jordan Nobbs was replaced by Danielle van de Donk in midfield, while Jodie Taylor had to make do with watching from the stands due to an ankle injury that has prevented her from making her debut.

Elsewhere, former Gunners Ayisi and Melissa Lawley started in attack for the visitors.

First halF

Despite a lack of clear chances, it was a high-octane start at Meadow Park with Vicky Losada and Natalia on the receiving end of some tough challenges.

Ayisi was inches away from opening the scoring in the 21st minute, but her effort from outside the box floated wide.

The Gunners had to wait half an hour before registering a shot, although Dan Carter’s strike from 25-yards out didn't trouble Sophie Baggaley.

A quiet first half came to life just before the break when Sari Van Veenendaal had to tip Ayisi’s volley onto the bar.

Second half

The Gunners started on the offensive after the break, as Leah Williamson and substitute Fara Williams tried their luck from outside the box.

Substitute Asisat Oshoala had an instant impact following her introduction in the 68th minute, ghosting into the box before firing wide of the post.

Janssen crashed a powerful free-kick against the bar from 25-yards out in additional time, but Arsenal had to settle for a point in front of the 1,212 fans celebrating Girls' Football Week.