CLOE LACASSE came to Arsenal’s rescue dashing Manchester United’s hopes of piling title pressure on the Gunners.
Just as it looked as if Malvine Malard had sealed the win that would consign the visitors to a fourth loss on the bounce – Lacasse struck to claim a 2-2 draw.
ReutersCloe Lacasse’s late leveller rescued a point for Arsenal[/caption]
GettyLeah Galton had earlier equalised for Manchester United[/caption]
A result that will have come as a relief for the visitors with Sabrina D’Angelo’s penalty box howler gifting United a goal.
As a footballing force that was once the most dominant in the women’s domestic game on these shores, Arsenal have been used to setting records.
But tonight the holders of the most league title trophies wins – with 15 in their cabinet – almost fell to a fourth straight loss in the WSL for the first time.
A new record that would have been notched up just a day after they announced a new three-year contract for boss Jonas Eidevall.
This evening’s duel was the first time Alessia Russo returned to top-flight action against her old club since sealing a sensational summer switch to the London giants.
In the last clash between the rivals in April, the striker was the home fans’ darling bagging the winner that saw them do a league double over Arsenal.
Ahead of the game Russo’s old team-mate Leah Galton spoke of her wish to see United’s fans give their former star a warm welcome.
But the pantomime jeers that greeted the announcement of her name in Arsenal’s starting 11 showed there was fat chance of that.
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Chastened by his side’s shock home loss to Liverpool, Eidevall made SIX changes to his line-up.
This included goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger replaced by Canada ace D’Angelo.
And after weathering some early pressure the visitors took a 14th minute lead with Russo involved in the build-up to Stina Blackstenius’ slotted finish.
The hosts look to battle back with Geyse and Galton serving as their most dangerous threats in attack.
And Golden Girl Galton got the crowd rocking by punishing D’Angelo’s dawdling to pinch the ball and net a close range 27th-minute finish.
ReutersMelvine Malard thought she had won the match for United[/caption]
AlamyAlessia Russo returned to United for the first time since joining Arsenal[/caption]
The second half spell saw the game become more end-to-end with Geyse slicing a shot inches wide of the post for United.
And Russo who cracked the post late on forced Mary Earps into a stunning save with her feet with a close range shot.
Super sub Malard punished another error at the back for Arsenal lifting the ball over D’Angelo for debut goal in the 81st minute.
But Lacasse’s injury-time leveller saw the Gunners escape with a point with a clash with Aston Villa up next.