Stina Blackstenius scored a controversial winning goal in stoppage time to give Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Everton in the Women’s Super League.
The Gunners were thwarted by hitting the crossbar three times throughout the game, with Beth Meade rattling the crates twice in her final appearance at the Emirates Stadium before leaving the club, along with an Olivia Smith shot.
However, in the third minute of stoppage time, Blakstenius scored in the bottom corner to lift Renee Seagers’ side into second place in the Women’s Super League with one game in hand.
The goal was controversial after Lotte’s Uben Moi flicked the ball to Leah Williamson from an offside position. Moments later, the situation worsened when an Arsenal defender barged into Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan.
As a result of the impact with Williamson, Brosnan fell to the ground and was left outside the goal, allowing Blackstenius to tuck in her shot to seal the victory.
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Jiří Christiansen says Arsenal’s 93rd-minute goal against Everton should not have happened
‘Clear mistake’ – Should Arsenal’s winner not have been recognized?
Izzy Christiansen from Sky Sports:
“If it were me, I would be frustrated. It’s difficult. It’s difficult to see, but Ubben-Moy is offside. It’s a tough situation, but I expect the linesman to make that decision.”
“That’s step one. Leah Williamson is not offside, but this (contact with Brosnan) is offside. It’s a clear foul on the goalkeeper. This is a late challenge.”
“Of course it’s a great finish for Blackstenius, but for Everton it’s a really difficult decision to digest.”
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Arsenal fans pay tribute to Beth Meade as she leaves the Emirates for the final time in an emotional farewell.
Meade: It was a pleasure to play for Arsenal and I will miss it tremendously.
Arsenal forward Beth Mead:
“I’ve been here for a long time and I’ve met so many great people. I have a lifetime of memories and it’s been a huge honor to play for this great club for so long. I’ll miss you all so much.”
“It’s hard to put into words. I have some of the greatest memories here and some of the toughest and darkest days. I lost my mom while I was here, and I wouldn’t have gotten through it without these amazing people.”
“I don’t think we can thank you enough. You guys are the best fans in the world. We love you. I love you too. Thank you so much.”
