By Lloyd Webb at Meadow Park
SUMMARY
Arsenal were unable to avenge their Continental Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City, slipping to a 1-0 loss to the same opponents at Meadow Park on Sunday.
It was a subdued first 45 minutes, with Jordan Nobbs’ first-time volley the closest we came to a goal.
A deflection off Jane Ross from Steph Houghton’s powerful free-kick flew in to decide the game, despite the Gunners’ pressure late on.
SETTING THE SCENE
Pedro Martinez Losa made four changes to his side following the defeat to the Citizens a week earlier.
Sari Van Veenendaal returned in goal, while Fara Williams joined Nobbs in midfield after recovering from a virus.
Elsewhere, Jemma Rose and Marta Corredera were included, while former Gunners Jennifer Beattie and Houghton started for Nick Cushing’s side.
First half
It was a cagey opening to the game, with opportunities few and far between for both sides.
Dan Carter, who was a thorn in Manchester City’s side a week earlier, threatened early on with an effort from long distance.
Arsenal soon settled into their usual passing style, and came close to breaking the deadlock when Nobbs’ stinging volley was tipped over the bar by Karen Bardsley.
The chance was the best of a subdued first half, and gave Losa plenty of food for thought at the break.
Second half
The Gunners went a goal down shortly into the second half, when Houghton’s free-kick deflected off Jane Ross’ head and into the top corner.
Nobbs looked to immediately respond, but her effort from outside the box lacked the venom to trouble Bardsley.
Arsenal dominated possession and piled on the pressure in the final 10 minutes, but an equaliser eluded them as Manchester City maintained their unbeaten run in the Women’s Super League.
Referee:
Attendance: 1686
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