Arsenal Women reached the semi-finals of the Subway Women’s League Cup after a solid 2-0 win over Crystal Palace Women. The tie was played at the Borough Sports Ground, with the visitors showing calm control when it mattered most.
Renee Slegers set up her side to stay patient, and that approach paid off as the game progressed.
Early goal sets the tone
The breakthrough came from a set piece in the 18th min. Kyra Cooney-Cross delivered a sharp corner that caused immediate trouble inside the box.
Laia Codina attacked the delivery well and got her head to the ball. A slight deflection helped it on its way, leaving the Palace goalkeeper with no chance.
Palace almost responded straight away and came very close to levelling the score. Ashleigh Weerden sent in a dangerous cross from the right side. Abbie Larkin met it from close range, but her effort struck the post and bounced away.
The home side continued to push forward with belief and energy. Weerden later found herself in space again, early in the second half and fired just wide of the far post.
The flag went up for offside, but the warning signs were clear for Arsenal.
Mead impact seals the win
Midway through the second half, Arsenal made three changes to freshen things up. Steph Catley, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Kim Little were brought on together.
Leah Williamson made her first start of the season before being replaced. Laia Codina and Victoria Pelova were also removed during the reshuffle.
Palace kept searching for a goal and created another opening from a corner. Larkin was left unmarked at the edge of the area.
She took a touch and struck the ball cleanly, but it went straight at Anneke Borbe.
Beth Mead later entered the match to mark her 250th appearance for the club. She replaced Olivia Smith and added experience in the final moments.
Mead made a key contribution in stoppage time, rounding the goalkeeper before passing to Stina Blackstenius, who finished calmly and sealed Palace’s fate.
The goal confirmed Arsenal’s place in the last four of the competition. Slegers’ side will now prepare for a tough semi-final test.
Arsenal Women are set to face Manchester United Women on the weekend of January 21.
Arsenal, who are the most successful side in the competition with seven titles, will now be aiming to add yet another trophy to their collection.