Arsenal stepped one match closer to winning the Women’s Super League with two goals each for Katie Chapman and Ellen White. They cannot be overtaken on points but Birmingham, who beat Doncaster Belles, could pip them on goal difference.
Arsenal 4-1 Liverpool
Liverpool fought hard against Arsenal before a final flurry of goals sealed victory for the league leaders.
The game looked like it was to be a walk-over when Arsenal scored twice in the first 22 minutes through midfielder Katie Chapman.
But Liverpool forced their way back into the game after the break and in the 66th minute striker Katie Brusell reduced the margin with an excellent 20-yard shot.
Despite a valiant effort and a near-miss by Hannah Keryakoplis (Liverpool), the match finally swung Arsenals way. Ellen white scored twice in the last two minutes of the game securing victory and cementing their position at the top of the league.
Doncaster Belles 0-2 Birmingham City
First-half pressure from Birmingham was rewarded when winger Eni Aluko opened the scoring with a 15-yard shot from striker Jodie Taylor’s 24th-minute pass.
Jade Moore added the visitors’ second goal 10 minutes after the interval, the midfielder turning in a Kerys Harrop cross.
Aluko should have increased the lead but shot over the bar, then Taylor sent a good effort just wide as Blues looked for a victory clincher.
Birmingham now move ahead of Everton into second place and in pole position to finish the season as runners-up at least.
Lincoln 2-1 Everton
Lincoln dominated the early stages and only a fine save from goalkeeper Rachel Brown prevented striker Precious Hamilton from giving the home side the lead.
But the Imps (Lincoln) went ahead through an own goal in the 22nd minute, central defender Lindsey Johnson heading past her own keeper following a Jess Clarke cross.
A tremendous 30-yard strike by midfielder Lucy Staniforth gave the home side their second goal eight minutes before half-time.
Lincoln maintained their grip until the closing stages, but six minutes from time midfielder Fara Williams pulled a goal back.
That led to some anxious moments for the home defence before the final whistle signaled a deserved win to end a three-match losing streak.
Bristol Academy 0-1 Chelsea
Recently appointed Chelsea manager Emma Hayes celebrated her first victory despite finishing with only 10 players after midfielder Dani Buet was sent off in the 55th minute.
Buet had scored the only goal of the game with just five minutes on the clock, tucking
Chelsea Goalkeeper Carly Telford had to make a string of fine saves as Bristol fought to score, but they held on to draw level on points with Bristol.
Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
