Arsenal overcame the loss of four first-team players on
international duty to dispatch West Ham 8-1 in the Fifth Round of
the FA Women's Cup.
England striker Lianne Sanderson got the holders off to a flying
start with a goal after just two minutes and Gemma Davison doubled
Arsenal's advantage 20 minutes later.
The Southern League side kept their composure and Samantha
Puttick's excellent 20-yard strike hauled the Hammers back into
the game. But the respite was temporary as Kelly Smith, Mary
Phillip and Rachel Yankey struck before half-time to give Arsenal a
5-1 lead.
Phillip's goal was most notable - it was the England
defender's second in third games after more than three years
without registering a goal in an Arsenal shirt.
Davison, who had looked menacing all game, earned her side a
penalty eight minutes into the second half. It gave Sanderson the
opportunity to grab her second of the match and her 28th of another
prolific season. Karen Carney and an own goal completed the
scoring.
Arsenal will play Birmingham at home in the Quarter-Finals; the tie
will take place on Sunday, February 10.
Attendance: 325
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