WSL: Alessia Russo shines in convincing win over Everton | OneFootball

Alessia Russo once again proved to be Arsenal’s match-winner as her brilliance pushed the Gunners to a 3-1 triumph over Everton, securing them second place in the Women’s Super League. The win also provided some redemption after last week’s disappointing result, with Russo’s magical touch making all the difference on the road.

Starting XI’s

Everton

Brosnan; Mjelde, Fernandez, Hayashi, Vanhaevermaet, Payne, Ladd, Holmgaard, Snoeijs, Stenevik, Gago

Arsenal

Zinsberger; Fox, Williamson, Catley, Caldentey, Little, McCabe, Maanum, Wälti, Kelly, Russo

How it went

Both teams wasted no time finding their stride, with Arsenal creating the first chance of the game. Lia Walti delivered a dangerous cross into the box. Everton quickly responded with their own counter-attack, as Toni Payne’s blistering pace set up a chance for Ladd, who was denied at the back post by a timely intervention from Emily Fox.

The match then settled into a fast-paced rhythm, and the first real attempt came in the seventh minute. Everton’s Honoka Hayashi fired a fierce strike at goal, however Manuela Zinsberger had it covered comfortably. Arsenal’s high press continued to trouble Everton as their attempts to play out from the back were repeatedly denied.

In the 24th minute, Arsenal took the lead in stunning fashion. Kim Little delivered a precise cross into the box, which was met by a brilliant turn and clinical finish from Alessia Russo. It was a moment of individual quality that put the visitors ahead.

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Just nine minutes before halftime, Everton hit back with a well-taken equaliser. Katja Snoeijs’ initial shot was blocked, but Payne was alert to the rebound and made no mistake in firing past Zinsberger to make it level.

From that point on, the Gunners began to assert their dominance, with the Toffees struggling to keep up. The home side’s energy began to flag as Arsenal controlled possession and created further chances. An own goal from Maren Mjelde put the Gunners ahead in the 63rd minute.

The last goal of the game came in the 88th minute, sealing the win for Arsenal. Beth Mead threaded a sublime through ball to Russo, who kept her composure and slotted home to secure all three points for Arsenal, securing a 3-1 win.

The result puts Arsenal back on track, strengthening their position in the league table. Meanwhile Everton will be left to reflect on a performance that saw them show good fight but ultimately fall short.

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