Arsenal Women Weekly Roundup: Man United draw exposes attacking concerns

It has been another frustrating week for Arsenal Women, although Smilla Holmberg ensured it ended with at least something to celebrate after her dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Manchester United.

Last week’s Arsenal Women Weekly Roundup focused on the disappointment of being held 0-0 by Crystal Palace. Unfortunately, the Gunners have now followed that with another WSL draw, leaving Renée Slegers with plenty to work on as attention turns towards Europe.

Arsenal were held 1-1 by Manchester United at the Emirates on Saturday, with Holmberg striking in the 95th minute after Leah Williamson‘s cross reached her at the far post.

United had taken the lead before Arsenal finally found their response deep into added time.

Slegers made changes to her attacking setup, with Alessia Russo and Stina Blackstenius starting together for the first time this season. Russo operated behind Blackstenius, while Olivia Smith and Lisa Baum completed an attacking-looking Arsenal side.

Selina Cerci was introduced during the second half as Arsenal chased the game, while Caitlin Foord and Chloe Kelly also came from the bench.

The result leaves Arsenal with five points from their opening three WSL matches after consecutive draws against Palace and United.

The Arsenal boss did not need many words to sum up what has been missing.

Asked for her main takeaway after the United draw, Slegers replied, as per Arseblog:

“Not turning dominance into danger.”

That has certainly been the theme of the last two league games.

Arsenal have had plenty of possession and opportunities to establish control, but converting that superiority into clear chances and, ultimately, goals has proved far more difficult.

There was at least encouragement in the determination shown to continue pushing against United until Holmberg eventually found the equaliser.

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(Photo by Sarah Ray-Gain/Getty Images)

Arsenal have also named their 25-player squad for the UEFA Women’s Champions League league phase.

One notable absentee is Daphne van Domselaar. The goalkeeper continues her recovery from knee surgery in May, while Arsenal also had to make a decision because of the number of senior overseas players available.

Slegers is hopeful Van Domselaar could return sometime in October, although no firm date has been set.

Misa Rodriguez, Anneke Borbe and Isabella Damm are among the senior goalkeeping options included for Europe.
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There is little time for Arsenal Women to dwell on another frustrating league result.

The Gunners begin their Champions League campaign at home to HB Køge on Tuesday evening, offering an immediate opportunity to rediscover their attacking rhythm.

Then comes another major WSL test, with Arsenal travelling to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea next Sunday.

After two successive league draws, it feels like an important week for Slegers and her players. Arsenal Women remain unbeaten, but turning control into goals must surely be the priority.

What do you think, Gooners? Are you concerned by Arsenal Women’s lack of goals, or will the attacking quality in this squad soon start producing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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