As league action resumes Manchester United travel south to the capital ready to face league leaders Arsenal this Saturday with the Red Devils aiming to shorten the five point gap between them.
United have been on a good run of form, winning their last four games and unbeaten in the league since December. Their last league defeat was at the hands of their upcoming opponent when Jonas Eidevall’s side won 2-0 back in November.
Though Marc Skinner’s team did beat Arsenal in the quarterfinal of the league cup back in January courtesy of Alessia Russo’s late winner.
That defeat came amidst a turbulent few weeks for the Gunners with the catalyst being their first league defeat of the season against Birmingham City. A late equaliser from former United forward Tobin Heath helped Arsenal earn a point against Manchester City and a comeback win against Hope Powell’s Brighton could signal a return to form for the London side.
Beth Mead could also be in for a record breaking weekend. Mead has been amongst the top earning forwards in ShePlays points this season. (129) A goal and assist against Brighton to help win the game meant she equalled Karen Carney’s assist record on the league’s all-time records list.
United’s Ella Toone ranks third in ShePlays points for forwards (138) and will be hoping to continue assisting her teammates or getting on the scoresheet like she has very often this season.
With both sides having a potent attack their defensive solidity will be a priority. United’s Ona Batlle (127) and Arsenal’s Noelle Maritz (108) have been the backbone for their respective teams and have been heavily relied upon by their managers this season.
Heading into the second half of the season and the gap between the league’s top three teams being very slim, both sides will be desperate to earn three points on Saturday.