We kick off our Continental Tyres Cup campaign off against Women’s Super League 2 side London Bees on Thursday night, looking to bounce back from some disappointing results in the league.
After starting the season off with a win against Birmingham City, Pedro Martinez Losa’s side have since been beaten by Manchester City and held to a draw by Bristol City, leaving us sixth in the table.
THE OPPOSITION
The Bees have started the campaign with three defeats on the bounce, losing to Doncaster Belles, Sheffield and Tottenham.
While the Oranges have not clicked into gear yet, they will be hoping to repeat their cup surprise from last season,when they knocked Chelsea out in the first round.
We will be welcoming back to the club former Gunners Sophie Harris and Liege Luckett, who are expected to part of the travelling squad.
ONE TO WATCH
Beth Mead in action against Bristol City
Having signed from Sunderland in the summer, Beth Mead has only featured sparsely so far this season, coming off the bench on two occasions for Losa’s side.
Despite this, she has impressed when she has played, providing a threat going forward. The striker will be hoping to be handed a start on Thursday night, as she looks to earn a place in the starting XI on a regular basis.
Mead scored 77 goals in 78 appearances for the Black Cats and has represented England at various age groups since the age of 15.
LAST TIME WE MET
We have only faced the Bees twice in our history, both times in the cup.
The last time we did so was in 2015, when we came back from behind to beat the hosts 3-1, after Amber Gaylor had given them an early lead.
Substitutes Marta Corredera and Natalia Pablos Sanchon’s goals saw us fight back and earn the win, however.
FOLLOW THE ACTION
We’ll be providing live updates on our Twitter account - @ArsenalWFC
Kick-off is at 19:30pm.
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