Arsenal climbed to second place in the Women’s Super League after a 3-1 victory over Everton at Goodison Park. Alessia Russo marked her 100th WSL appearance with a goal, while Leah Williamson made a welcome return from injury off the bench.
The match burst into life during a frantic four-minute spell in the first half. Katie McCabe opened the scoring with a superb half-volley after Mariona Caldentey’s earlier effort was cleared off the line. Everton hit back almost immediately when Honoka Hayashi curled a long-range strike past Anneke Borbe, but Arsenal quickly regained the lead. Kim Little’s mishit volley struck Russo, and although goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan appeared to push the ball away, replays showed it had already crossed the line before Caitlin Foord smashed it into the net.
Everton, hoping to build on last weekend’s surprise win over Chelsea and end their home winless run, struggled to create further chances as Arsenal controlled the game. The visitors wrapped up the points late on when Olivia Smith volleyed home to make it 3-1.
There was also a special moment for Leah Williamson, who received a standing ovation from both sets of supporters as she made her first appearance since the Euro 2025 final following an ACL injury.
The result temporarily lifts Arsenal into second place in the WSL standings, while Everton remain ninth and extend their run without a home league win to five matches.
Speaking afterwards, Russo said the winter break was coming at an awkward time given Arsenal’s momentum, but welcomed the chance to reset after their remaining fixtures. Head coach Renee Slegers praised her side’s control, pressing and bravery, highlighting the importance of Smith’s late goal. Everton manager Brian Sorensen admitted his team were unsettled early on, crediting Arsenal’s quality while pointing to areas needing improvement.
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