Reds rock Gunners in front of record crowd

Arsenal 0-1 Liverpool

Report by Ruby Vince, photography by Mariella Prew at The Emirates for Impetus.

Above: Celebration time for Liverpool as they gain a superb win at Arsenal. Photo: Mariella Prew for Impetus.

In a thrilling showdown between Liverpool and Arsenal, it was the precision and persistence of Liverpool’s attack that ultimately made the difference. The match was full of heart-stopping moments, from crucial saves to that game-changing goal.

All eyes were on the newly formed Australian Arsenal trio as Kyra Cooney-Cross started on the bench. The first half was full of Gunners attacks with multiple corners being given to them. The 19th minute saw Rachel Laws pull off a crucial save after the fifth corner, showcasing her impeccable reflexes and unwavering focus. This moment set the tone for her impeccable performance throughout the match.

Arsenal came close to scoring the opener in the 22nd minute, but Laws brilliantly tipped the ball over the bar, denying the Gunners their first goal of the game. It was a pivotal moment that kept Liverpool in the contest.

A marginal error from Manuela Zinsberger in the 29th minute provided Liverpool with a golden opportunity to take the lead. Emma Koivisto seized the chance with a powerful right-footed shot, but it veered just left of the target, leaving Arsenal breathing a sigh of relief. Liverpool continued to press forward, with Missy Bo Kearns’ free kick in the 32nd minute narrowly missing the mark. It was a close call that kept the pressure on Arsenal’s defence.

In the 35th minute, Laws once again proved herself with a phenomenal save, from a powerful shot by Frida Maanum. Her exceptional goalkeeping skills were on full display the whole match today.

Home captain Kim Little engineered an impressive play in the 42nd minute, taking the ball past Fuka Nagano for a shot on target. Laws, however, stood firm, making yet another crucial save to keep Liverpool’s hopes alive. The 45th minute saw Katie McCabe receive a yellow card, a testament to the intensity and physicality of the match.

Liverpool finally broke through in the 48th minute, with Miri Taylor’s left-footed strike finding the back of the net, assisted by Kearns. It was a masterful display of teamwork and precision, providing Liverpool with a 1-0 lead. The 62nd minute saw a triple substitution for Arsenal, as Victoria Pelova, Lina Hurtig, and Amanda Illestedt made their way onto the pitch.

Liverpool opted for a substitution in the 66th minute, with Natasha Flint taking the place of Taylor, a move designed to maintain their momentum and defensive stability. In the 71st minute, Mia Enderby entered the fray, replacing Marie Hobinger for Liverpool. The substitution aimed to further fortify Liverpool’s attack and maintain their lead.

Arsenal responded, bringing Stina Blackstenius on for England striker Alessia Russo in the 72nd minute, as they sought to mount a comeback. Arsenal made their final substitution in the 84th minute, with Australian international Kyra Cooney Cross making her debut as she replaced Walti. It was a bold move that demonstrated Arsenal’s determination to find an equaliser.

In the end, Liverpool’s strategic play and unwavering defence secured them a hard-fought victory against a formidable Arsenal side. The match will undoubtedly be remembered as a showcase of skill, tenacity, and tactical prowess from both teams.

Mariella Prew’s exclusive photo gallery for Impetus from The Emirates

For further images by Mariella Prew from the match, click on this link: https://impetusfootball.org/2023/10/02/photography-showcase-3/

Teams: ARSENAL: Zinsberger, Wubben-Moy, Beattie, Catley, Little, Maanum, Walti, McCabe, Foord, Russo, Lacasse. Substitutes: D’angelo, Maritz, Hurtig, Pelova, Kuhl, Blackstenius, Codina, Ilestedt, Cooney-Cross.

LIVERPOOL: Laws, Koivisto, Fisk, Kearns, Nagano, Hinds, Hobinger, Clark, Holland, Bonner, Taylor. Substitutes: Micah, Enderby, Lundgaard, Flint, Parry

Scorer: Taylor 48’.

Referee: Emily Heaslip.

Attendance: 54,115.

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