Super Falcons midfielder, Toni Payne played a crucial role as Everton held Arsenal to a 0-0 draw in a Women’s Super League (WSL) encounter at the Emirates Stadium, on Sunday.
The Toffees produced a resilient defensive performance to earn their first point of the season in front of 25,480 fans.
Arsenal, who have qualified for the Women’s Champions League, dominated possession and created several chances, but were unable to break down a determined Everton defense.
(Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Everton’s best chance in the first half came just before halftime, when Veatriki Sarri’s deflected cross hit the woodwork, and the resulting corner saw Justine Vanhaevermaet’s header cleared off the line by McCabe.
In the second half, Arsenal increased the pressure with Maanum and Beth Mead launching several attacks.
Everton, however, stood firm, with Lucy Hope making crucial blocks and Payne playing a key role in defensive clearances.
Tony Payne started the game from the bench was substituted into the match in the 60th minute.
She had 8 successful touches and completed one dribble in the 30 minutes she played in the pitch.
Arsenal had 25 attempts at goal, however, Everton’s defense, anchored and Brosnan’s outstanding goalkeeping, ensured the Gunners couldn’t find the net.
The result leaves Arsenal frustrated as they aim for their first league win of the season, while Everton will take confidence from the hard-fought draw.
Arsenal had won all 10 of their previous home fixtures against Everton since the WSL was founded in 2011.
For Everton, who had endured a difficult start to the season after losing key players – the Italy midfielder Aurora Galli and the Spain midfielder Inma Gabarro – to season-ending anterior cruciate ligament knee injuries in their opening two games, the draw and first point of the campaign will be a huge boost.
