Marc Skinner laments City’s advantage after Vivianne Miedema shines and Brighton welcome back Kiko Seike
With her hat-trick in Arsenal’s 5-2 win over Tottenham, Alessia Russo took her tally to 25 goal contributions in 31 games this campaign. It is a notable return from a player in her prime, not just in her buildup play, but also her finishing. Arsenal’s attacking dominance – they have scored 18 goals in their past five games – is down to the fact that many of their attacking players are in form. Stina Blackstenius has three goals in her past four games while Caitlin Foord also scored on Saturday, her first appearance since returning from the Asian Cup. Renée Slegers has spoken about the versatility in the type of goals her side produces and the need to be ruthless in both penalty areas. Spurs’ two goals meant an end to Arsenal’s 106-day streak of not conceding in the WSL. While all runs must come to an end, Arsenal still boast the meanest defence in the league. Sophie Downey
Match report: Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham
Marc Skinner repeatedly said fatigue was Manchester United’s downfall after they were comfortably beaten by Manchester City and expressed his frustration at playing their neighbours on Saturdays straight after midweek Champions League fixtures. His team faced Bayern Munich last Wednesday, whereas City are not in Europe. Asked about the quick turnaround time for this defeat and for November’s 3-0 loss at the Etihad, which also followed a Champions League game for United, Skinner said: “It’s a hard one for me because if I say ‘yes’, which is what I really do feel, then people say it’s an excuse, but it is a factor. I think Man City have had an advantage from that twice this year. That’s [all] the energy they have got; the girls are giving everything. It’s a factor, going into these huge games.” Tom Garry
