The Arsenal Ladies were crowned champions last night (Thursday April 24^th) after a 4-1 victory against London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates stadium.

The ladies usually play at their home ground Borehamwood, but last night clinched the title at the Emirates stadium in front of a crowd of over 5000 supporters. It is their fifth successive league title.

Part of the team’s success was down to the swift foot work and quick-thinking of Karen Carney and Kelly Smith. Being more dominant, Arsenal kept possession the longest but Chelsea didn’t give up.

It was a slow start to the match, and Chelsea took the lead with striker Emma Whitter finding the back of the net in the 16^th minute. After that the pace really picked up for the Arsenal.

Mary Phillip’s was able to stop Whitter from a second shot on target, and goalie Jayne Ludlow diverted another attempt over the cross bar.

Arsenal’s first goal in the 21^st minute came when Smith dropped Carney a superb ball. She was then able to send a light but timely shot toward the goal line which rolled just under the goalie’s dive.

With the visitors starting to tire, Smith saw this opportunity to cross the ball into Kim Little who tapped the ball in. With 81 minutes on the clock the score was 3-1 to Arsenal.

Feeling confident, Carney ran in with the ball in the 83^rd minute to firmly grasp the championship for Arsenal.

This is the 10^th league the champions have won in 16 seasons. They have also won the FA Cup eight times and the League Cup nine. They are looking to increase that figure early next month in the FA Cup final against Leeds United.

David Tabor, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine

Read Sportsister’s interview with two of Arsenal’s top players: Rachel Yankey and Kelly Smith ^[1]