Renee Slegers
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal Women continued their strong pre-season form with a 2-0 victory over West Ham United in a friendly at Meadow Park on Wednesday night, with head coach Renee Slegers praising her side’s ability to maintain consistency despite heavy rotation.
The Gunners, playing their penultimate pre-season match, struck twice in the second half through Frida Maanum, who capitalised on a revitalised Arsenal performance after the break. Maanum’s first goal came from a superb cross by substitute Sophie Harwood, while her second was set up by an intelligent clipped pass from Jenna Nighswonger.
Slegers, who made seven substitutions at half-time, was pleased with how her team adapted while sticking to their principles.
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“It’s pre-season, so we’re trying different things, different players in different positions,” Slegers toldArsenal.com. “A big factor is getting the right minutes for the right players. I think they did that really well in the second half, so I’m really happy with that.”
Arsenal - Frida Maanum
Frida Maanum scored twice against West Ham (Image credit: Getty Images)
The first half saw Arsenal dominate possession but struggle to create clear chances, with West Ham posing defensive resistance. The injection of fresh legs after the interval including Beth Mead and Maanum brought pace and precision, allowing the Gunners to control the game and find the breakthrough.
Slegers also praised the team’s defensive stability, highlighting the importance of the clean sheet.
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“The opposition asked us different questions, and that’s what we want,” she said. “We want different challenges to prepare as well as possible for the season.”
Notably, Mariona Caldentey was rested, while Stina Blackstenius sat out due to a minor knock. Renee Slegers commended Victoria Pelova for her versatility, noting her ability to adapt to multiple roles throughout the match.
Arsenal will conclude their preparations this weekend with an intra-squad friendly at the training ground before turning full attention to the start of the 2025/26 Women’s Super League season. The lively Meadow Park crowd, particularly the North Bank faithful, were treated to an energetic second-half display that underlined the Gunners’ growing readiness for competitive action.
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