Arsenal responded emphatically to their midweek disappointment in the Champions League with a commanding 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the Women’s Super League. Meanwhile, Everton secured a 3-0 win against Crystal Palace, leaving the visitors at the bottom of the table.
Liverpool’s Jasmine Matthews endured a difficult evening, scoring two own goals at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal’s relentless attacking play overwhelmed the opposition. The result ended Amber Whiteley’s 100% winning record as Liverpool’s interim head coach.
This dominant display marked the sixth consecutive home league fixture in which Arsenal have scored four or more goals, setting a new WSL record. The breakthrough came when Caitlin Foord capitalized on poor defending from a corner to tap in from close range. Moments later, Kim Little’s attempted cross took an unfortunate deflection off Matthews and found the back of the net. Arsenal’s momentum continued as Mariona Caldentey curled in a stunning third goal just before halftime.
Matthews’ misfortune continued in the 69th minute when she deflected Beth Mead’s shot into her own net, sealing a comprehensive win for Arsenal. The victory reduced the gap at the top of the league to five points, with Chelsea still to play their fixture against Manchester City.
Liverpool, despite an impressive run of form under Whiteley, struggled to threaten the Arsenal defense and failed to register a single shot on target. Frida Maanum came close to adding to Arsenal’s tally, hitting the woodwork twice after linking up well with Alessia Russo. The team’s focus now shifts to their upcoming Champions League fixture, where they will attempt to overturn a 2-0 deficit against Real Madrid.
Reflecting on the match, Foord highlighted the team’s determination to bounce back from their European setback. She emphasized the attacking fluidity and teamwork that contributed to their impressive performance.
The day’s fixtures saw stark contrasts in attendance, with 35,628 fans creating an electric atmosphere at the Emirates, while just 754 spectators witnessed Everton’s win over Crystal Palace at Walton Hall Park.
Everton’s victory lifted them to seventh place in the league. Justine Vanhaevermaet opened the scoring with a far-post header from a Sara Holmgaard corner. Shortly after the break, Holmgaard doubled the lead with a well-placed header from Kelly Gago’s cross. Gago then showcased her strength and composure, muscling past her marker before firing in Everton’s third goal.
Everton manager Brian Sørensen praised his team’s patience and attacking intent, urging them to play with conviction and confidence. The match also marked a special moment for Rikke Madsen, who made her first appearance of the season after returning from maternity leave. Following the final whistle, she received a marriage proposal on the pitch, celebrating the moment with her newborn baby and teammates.
Despite another tough result, Crystal Palace’s head coach remained optimistic, emphasizing his team’s continued improvement in defensive organization. While still at the bottom of the table, Palace remain determined to fight for survival as the season progresses.
