Miri Taylor stunned the Emirates crowd when her low finish gave the visitors the lead in the 48th minute after the ball was cut back by Missy Bo Kearns. A string of excellent first half saves by Rachael Laws had given Liverpool a foothold in the game, and Arsenal were unable to respond. The Gunners travel to Manchester United on Friday with pressure already on Jonas Eidevall and his side.

Player ratings:

Manu Zinsberger 5.5/10

Began the new league season between the sticks after some well-publicised errors for Austria in the recent international break. Spilled a cross in the first half and was rescued by a fantastic block by Beattie. Her starting position could be questioned for Taylor’s goal, with Zinsberger having to scamper across to her far post.

Lotte Wubben-Moy 6/10

Dominant in the air in defence but also came close to scoring Arsenal’s opener early on when her header was well saved by Laws.

Jen Beattie 7/10

Saved a certain goal when she threw her body in front of Hinds’ close range effort. Has started the new season like she ended the last- my player of the match.

Steph Catley 6/10

Caused problems with a series of pinpoint deliveries from her corner kicks, all honed in on a packed six yard box. Was beaten too easily in the build up to Liverpool’s goal.

Kim Little 5.5/10

Partnered Lia Walti in the middle of the park, protecting Arsenal’s defence.

Frida Maanum 6.5/10

Played on the wing, at times swapping flanks with Foord, but drifting in central. Almost scored a stunning half-volley to open the scoreline, but the Norway international was denied by Laws.

Lia Walti 6/10

Patrolled the midfield and kept possession well for Arsenal.

Katie McCabe 6.5/10

Fresh from signing a new contract to commit her future to Arsenal. Kept fighting for her side until the very end, battling to create chances.

Caitlin Foord 6/10

Most effective on the left wing, where she can cut onto her right foot. Had plenty of chances but was often met by a wall of purple shirts. Hit the crossbar with a clever header late on.

Alessia Russo 6/10

League debut for Arsenal, has settled in very well with a brace in the eventual defeat to Paris FC last month. Great with her back to goal, bringing others into play- found the pockets of space in between Liverpool’s midfield and defence, but saw little service in the second half.

Cloe Lacasse 6.5/10

First game in the WSL after signing at the start of the summer, and started at right wing-back. Worked very hard and showed glimpses of her quality to the home supporters.

Victoria Pelova (Sub, 64’) 6/10

Quickly grew into the game- her movement is always excellent.

Lina Hurtig (Sub, 64’) 6/10

An aerial threat, as proven in the recent World Cup. Carried the ball well and created chances.

Amanda Ilestedt (Sub, 64’) 5.5/10

The centre back made her league debut for the Gunners and was likely brought on for her ability in attack after netting four times in the World Cup for Sweden.

Stina Blackstenius (Sub, 72’)

Kyra Cooney-Cross (Sub, 86’)

Subs not used: Sabrina D’Angelo, Noelle Maritz, Kathrine Kuhl, Laia Codina.