WSL: Alessia Russo's second half strike earns Arsenal 1-0 win in North London derby

Arsenal striker Alessia Russo scored a poacher's goal against bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur in front of a sold-out crowd of 60,050 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, keeping the hosts in contention for the Women's Super League title.

The victory brought Arsenal level on 34 points with Chelsea, who visit Leicester City later on Sunday, and three points behind Manchester City, who defeated Everton 2-1 on Saturday.

Arsenal had the advantage in the early going on a pitch that the WSL claimed was the first prepared for a league game by an all-female ground staff, but Jessica Naz of Spurs came closest, hitting the bar midway through the first half.

The Gunners reshuffled and took the lead early in the second half, when Beth Mead took advantage of a switch in play, squaring the ball as she was tackled for her England teammate Russo to blast home from close range.

Tottenham made three substitutions shortly after the hour mark and later brought on striker Beth England, but despite a tense finish that included five yellow cards in the final 11 minutes, Arsenal held on for a crucial win in their title challenge.

SportsLigue