Vivianne Miedema’s goal put Arsenal on pace in the Women’s Super League title race as the Gunners returned to victory at home to Everton.
Miedema produced a superb finish after 24 minutes, creating space in the penalty area before shooting spectacularly past Emily Ramsey.
The Dutch striker found herself with her hands on her head after being denied by Everton’s final defense after a second-half corner kick at Meadow Park.
But the lone goal proved enough for Jonas Eidevall’s side to react positively to seeing their 14-game winning streak ended by Manchester United a fortnight ago.
Arsenal were able to welcome back England captain Leah Williamson after a two-month absence with a foot injury, with the 25-year-old coming on as a second-half substitute.
But Everton keeper Emily Ramsey, who denied Caitlin Foord late in his 12 saves, kept the Gunners from being assured of victory until the final whistle.
A 14th straight win over Everton moved Arsenal to level with Manchester United, who earlier beat Aston Villa 5-0and Chelsea after eight games – before the end of the Blues’ game against Leicester City.
Miedema plays as Arsenal bounce back
Arsenal have not lost consecutive league games since February 2021, when they last lost back-to-back home games in the competition in September 2016.
After Miedema’s excellent class opener midway through the first half, they rarely looked in danger of such a fate – although they couldn’t put the game completely out of reach for a Everton determined.
A dramatic 3-2 loss to Manchester United in their last league outing ended an 18-game unbeaten streak for the Gunners – and suggested a four-team title race is a very real possibility this season .
Manager Eidevall will be pleased with that response after Miedema delivered the quality moment required to clinch the points at Borehamwood.
After ending a seven-game wait for a goal last week with an equalizer against Juventus that keeps Arsenal in control of their Champions League group, the 26-year-old has collected Caitlin Foord’s assist and wrong-footed two defenders as she retreated to her right. foot before slamming the ball into the top corner.
Miedema looked full of confidence after that spectacular finish, frequently stepping back to help his team and playing a key role in his side’s most threatening attacks.
She attempted seven shots – a total matched only by team-mate Frida Maanum – but was left in disbelief as she was twice prevented from stabbing at close range as the Everton defense put her body on the line.
Everton, for whom Jessica Park proved a thrilling influence, struggled to maneuver into promising positions but Nicoline Sorensen and Karen Holmgaard nearly snatched a late equalizer amid a flurry of late attempts.
Lotte Wubben-Moy and Foord closed in as they pushed to seal the points, but the victory accompanied by a 200th club appearance for Williamson’s return made for an enjoyable afternoon for Arsenal.
