Everton Women suffered a cruel late defeat against Arsenal Women in the WSL, as Stina Blackstenius struck deep into injury time at the Emirates Stadium.
Although the Blues produced a resilient defensive display, they were ultimately left empty-handed after Blackstenius controversially netted in the dying moments.
The hosts applied early pressure as Alessia Russo fired over the crossbar from close range inside seven minutes.
But Everton quickly set the defensive tone through Ruby Mace, who slid into an excellent challenge to deny Katie McCabe the chance to deliver into the area.
Arsenal came close again in the 15th minute when Beth Mead headed Emily Fox’s delivery against the crossbar.
The pressure continued as Russo directed another effort towards goal which slipped through Courtney Brosnan’s legs, but Everton’s defence reacted superbly, with Martina Fernández hacking the ball clear before it could cross the line.
Everton almost found a breakthrough of their own through some clever thinking from Clare Wheeler, who spotted Anneke Borbe off her line and attempted an ambitious lob, though the effort landed on the roof of the net.
The Blues did well to head into the break level, despite further Arsenal pressure, with Mead striking the woodwork for a second time following a lofted effort.
The second half began in similarly intense fashion as Laia Codina had the ball in the back of the net, only for the offside flag to correctly deny the defender.
Arsenal continued to push and struck the crossbar for a third time when Olivia Smith’s curling effort from the edge of the box narrowly missed the top corner.
Substitute Ornella Vignola added fresh energy late on and came close herself, though her effort deflected narrowly wide.
From there, it looked as though Everton would hold on for an impressive point, but Arsenal struck in controversial fashion in the 93rd minute. Blackstenius fired home from outside the area, though Brosnan was impeded after colliding with Leah Williamson, while questions were also raised over Arsenal’s offside positioning in the build-up.
The goal stood regardless, leaving Everton to depart the capital wondering what might have been after an otherwise disciplined performance.
Everton Women now return to Goodison Park for their final game of the season against Leicester City Women this weekend.
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