Three things we learned from Arsenal Women’s 1-1 draw with Everton Women at Walton Hall Park last Sunday. 

We missed height in defence

With none of Lotte, Amanda or Leah being on the pitch in the second half, it could be that was a problem for set pieces.

The galling 95th minute equaliser for Everton possibly could’ve been prevented.

I also think that we need to stay switched on for crosses, because we’ve conceded a few from them this season. Going forward, we also need to improve our set piece efficiency because we have loads of corners and hardly score from any of them.

It was a problem in this game and it’s been a problem all season. Ilestedt is useful in this but will be out for a while. In general though, the process is the issue rather than relying on an individual.

Russo is in great form

She was one of the bright sparks in an otherwise frustrating game. She has scored in the last three games, and she’s really stepped up despite the fact that she’s playing out of position in number 10.

In the past she was a number 10, but has played 9 for a few years so it’s sort of a new position for her, especially in a new team. She has impressed me this season.

Also think Beth really stepped up in the second half of this game. Got an assist, was way more active, and influenced the game a lot.

We pressed well in this game but struggled to put away chances and struggled to create really clear-cut opportunities.

Where have we heard that before? It’s been a problem all season, unfortunately.

We are still dealing with people coming back from ACL injuries

In the past, Beth and Viv have contributed to most of our goals directly.

They were the attacking threat. Both are coming back from injury. Viv didn’t even get off the bench in this game because of injury.

Beth is also getting used to the demands of the WSL schedule again after being out for so long.

Leah had to be taken off at half time. Our distribution from the back wasn’t the best, and Leah is a huge part of that.

Also wonder if her presence would’ve helped with defending set pieces.

We go to Manchester City next, who have hugely improved at set pieces. We will need to be wary of this.