Arsenal record narrow victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in opening game | OneFootball

Arsenal got off to a winning start in this season’s Barclays Women’s Super League by seeing-off Brighton & Hove Albion 1-0 at Broadfield Stadium this afternoon.

Lisa Baum’s first half goal was enough to separate the two sides on the opening day in Sussex. 

It was the hosts who created the first real chance of the game. Kiko Seike’s effort was saved by Misa Rodríguez after the Japanese forward latched onto Chiamaka Nnadozie’s long ball.

Arsenal then took the lead in the 10th minute. Debutant Baum’s left-footed shot hit the underside of the bar and flew into Nnadozie’s goal.

Brighton & Hove Albion looked to equalise, but Fran Kirby’s volley from close range flew over the bar before Charlie Rule was unable to find the top corner from the edge of the box.

After netting the opening goal, Renee Slegers’ Arsenal side looked to create more chances. Alessia Russo fired over before she saw a second chance blocked by Nnadozie. 

After half-time, Arsenal continued to seek another goal, applying pressure to the Brighton & Hove Albion defence, however, no chance was converted. Second half substitute Stina Blackstenius went close with a right-footed shot from outside of the box, but the ball was tipped away by Nnadozie. Caitlin Foord then had a chance in the centre of the box, but the ball was blocked. 

Both sides are back in Barclays Women’s Super League action next Sunday. Brighton & Hove Albion travel to Birmingham City while Arsenal play host Crystal Palace.