Arsenal end five-match WSL winless run with 2-1 derby victory at Tottenham
Arsenal beat Tottenham 2-1 in the north London derby to claim their first Women's Super League win in six matches, easing pressure on manager Renee Slegers as they look to build momentum.
Arsenal claimed their first Women's Super League victory in six matches by beating Tottenham 2-1 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, a result that eased mounting pressure on manager Renee Slegers. The visitors had started the day in the bottom half of the table, four points behind fourth-placed Tottenham and 12 points adrift of leaders Manchester City, with their title ambitions already described as in ruins.
A disjointed first half reflected Arsenal's low confidence, with misplaced passes and sloppy errors. Tottenham took the lead through Cathinka Tandberg's header, but the advantage lasted only four minutes before Georgia Stanway equalised with a powerful strike. Asked about her half-time message, Slegers said she offered constructive tactical points and reminded the team of the fight and intensity required in a real derby.
Arsenal improved after the break and got the winner from the penalty spot. Referee Phoebe Cross pointed to the spot when Lisa Baum's shot came off the post and Tandberg's clearance struck the outstretched hand of team-mate Ella Morris. Alessia Russo, who had missed a big chance moments earlier, converted past goalkeeper Lize Kop and ran to celebrate with the away fans.
Former Arsenal defender Gilly Flaherty, speaking to BBC One, said the visitors were causing their own problems in an unconvincing first half and took time to settle. One Gunners supporter told BBC Sport at half-time that the team looked nervy in and out of possession, describing the constant changes of formation and starting XI as desperate and out of control.
Rather than their usual post-match huddle, Slegers took the players to the away end, where they celebrated with supporters who had travelled in the rain. She said the team wanted to play for something bigger than themselves and that the win would energise them. Arsenal now face Benfica in the Women's Champions League on Wednesday, followed by four home games in November and a trip to Barcelona. Slegers stressed the result was only a step and must be backed up, with a top-three finish needed to secure European football next season.
