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Post by Everton News. on Oct 6, 2024 22:05:17 GMT
Everton claimed a solid Women's Super League point from a gritty and resolute performance against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Veatriki Sarri came close to opening the scoring, and her Blues account, in the first half, with her dipping strike tipped on to the bar by Daphne Van Domselaar.
The Gunners hit the upright twice themselves, with Emily Fox’s inswinging cross and Caitlin Foord’s 90th-minute volley rattling the woodwork.
Committed defending and a hard-work ethic saw the Blues see the game out and depart the capital with a deserved point, their first of the WSL 2024/25 season.
Brian Sorensen made four changes to the side that defeated Newcastle United on penalties in the League Cup in midweek. Clare Wheeler, Elise Stenevik, Justine Vanhaevermaet and Katja Snoeijs replaced Issy Hobson, Toni Payne, Lauren Thomas and Emma Bissell.
The hosts started the game on the front foot, as Fox crept behind Sara Holmgaard down the right flank. A few yards from the byline, the American crossed deep in to the box, with her dangerous ball clipping the crossbar.
Arsenal's pressure continued and resulted in Frida Maanum having a sight of goal on 34 minutes. The 25-year-old’s dazzling feet enabled her to evade the challenges of several challenges and gain a yard of space in the area. She pulled the trigger, but could find only the side netting.
Five minutes later, it was the Toffees’ turn to hit the crossbar. Progressive play from the back enabled Honoka Hayashi to drive at the London outfit’s defence. The Japan international played it out wide to Sarri, who released a venomous strike that was tipped on to the woodwork by the keeper.
An important second half ensued, with Everton’s defensive shape put to the test.
It certainly passed the test, as Sorensen’s side defended resolutely and put bodies on the line to secure the point.
Most notably, a brave double block from Heather Payne and Vanhaevermaet denied Jonas Eidevall’s side two shots on target with four minutes remaining.
With 90 minutes on the clock, the bouncing ball fell to Ford at the back post. The Emirates crowd gasped, but the Australian failed to hit the target, seeing her effort rebound off the frame of the goal.
The referee blew her whistle to conclude a terrific performance in North London.
The Blues return to Walton Hall Park next, as West Ham United make the journey from the capital on Sunday 13 October (2pm GMT).
Everton FC
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