Arsenal and City recorded crushing WSL victories on Matchday 18 this weekend. For its part, United can thank Melvine Malard.
Chloe Kelly reinvigorated, Arsenal puts pressure on
Arsenal are returning to the forefront in this second part of the season. Renée Slegers’ players put in a string of brilliant performances after a checkered start to the season. At the Emirates, against their London neighbor West Ham, Arsenal left no room for doubt.
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Established on the left wing, it was the usual super-sub Chloe Kelly, author of a double and an assist, who guided the Gunners from start to finish. The England international is back in form at the best time, having not scored since last October. Stina Blackstenus, Alessia Russo and Beth Mead also stood out to seal Arsenal’s victory, their ninth in a row in all competitions.
Chelsea doubt, United go back in front thanks to Malard
Arsenal, who now have 35 points, with still two games in hand to play, are finishing the season with a bang, being only two lengths behind 3rd Chelsea, who occupy the last European qualifying place. Sonia Bompastor’s Blues, winners of the League Cup last weekend, are in great danger in the championship. By conceding a draw to London City (1–1), Chelsea lost valuable points in the race for Europe and let Manchester United pass them in front.
But the scenario could have been completely different for the Mancuniennes. Taking the lead almost the entire match against Everton, thanks to an achievement from Elisabeth Terland before the break, the Red Devils were surprised with a nice combination concluded by Inma Gabarro. Fortunately, Melvine Malard, with a header from close range, set the record straight in money time (1–2). Thanks to this last-minute success, Manchester United regains second place with 38 points, eight points behind their rival Manchester City.
Historic Bunny Shaw, City charge towards title
After a disappointing draw at Villa Park last week, the Skyblues resumed their march forward in a resounding manner. Mute last week, Manchester City relied in particular on its flamboyant striker, Bunny Shaw, to put Spurs’ intentions in a prolific match (5–2).
In twelve minutes, the Jamaican scored the fastest hat-trick in WSL history. That’s quite simply 18 goals in 18 league games for the top scorer. And with four days to go, City are on the verge of an unexpected national title.
Leicester sinks, Liverpool close to maintaining
In the duels at the bottom of the table, Aston Villa almost ensured their survival at Leicester (1–2). Despite Alisha Lehmann’s first goal for the Foxes, Villa stunned the hosts with a late Kirsty Hanson saving goal, her 10th this season. With 9 points, Leicester remains bottom, three lengths behind West Ham, first non-relegation. For their part, Liverpool went for the draw point at Brighton (0–0), and is now five points ahead of Leicester.
This week, the English clubs still competing in the Champions League will play big. While Arsenal hosts Chelsea in the quarter-finals this Wednesday, it is especially Manchester United who are playing big. United will first host Bayern in the European Cup on Wednesday, then Manchester City on Saturday for the 19th day of the WSL.
Julien Helle Nicholson
Photo © Manchester United FC
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