Arsenal v Bristol City WSL 01/12/2019

Yesterday, myself, Tommy and Gareth went to watch the WSL match between Arsenal and Bristol City. Prior to the match we all gave a score prediction, but none of us expected what happened next. In this blog, I look back on what was a record breaking day for Arsenal.

We got to the ground an hour or so before kick off, so we could get some food and then watch the teams warm up. When the Arsenal team was announced, we were slightly confused as to what the formation was going to be, but were happy to see all of our favourite players starting!.

The teams walked out to a loud cheer from the supporters, and the customary pre match photos were taken. From the start, Arsenal were a threat and within 7 minutes, the defending champions had their first goal of the game. Lisa Evans was left unmarked in the box and headed home from a brilliant cross from Vivianne Miedema. Three minutes later, the Gunners had a second, another quality cross from Miedema was headed home by Leah Williamson (I was buzzing for Leah, but could not bring myself to cheer an Arsenal goal haha). Arsenal were on top form, and there was nothing Bristol could do, Miedema added a third in the 15th minute, before going on to get her hat trick after scoring another 2 goals in the 32nd and 34th minute. At the break Arsenal led 5-0 and were in complete control.

Leah Williamson scored Arsenal's 2nd goal of the game

The second half, followed the same pattern of the first, Arsenal were playing such beautiful football and there was not much Bristol could do. Arsenal were 8 nil up within twelve minutes of the second half. Miedema got another two goals, and another assist, this time for English midfielder Jordan Nobbs. Arsenal's ninth goal was fantastic, a wonderful pass by Miedema was volleyed into the net by Evans, for her second of the game. In the 64th minute, Miedema scored her 6th and Arsenal's 10th goal of the game. Everyone we were sat around could not believe what we were witnessing!. Miedema was subbed in the 70th minute and many fans were on their feet applauding the Dutch striker after her performance. Emma Mitchell added another goal to Arsenal's tally, with a great finish past the Bristol keeper. To credit Bristol, they did not stop fighting and were dubiously awarded a penalty in the last five minutes of the game. Yana Daniels's penalty was saved but she turned in the rebound. The goal was a little consolation to the Bristol team.

Lisa Evans got 2 goals and assists.

As a fan I do not think I have seen an individual performance as good as Miedema's in all my years following the womans game. Everything she touched seemed to turn into a goal, and I have to say I think she should win the Ballon D'or, however, I know it'll go elsewhere. Although Miedema's performance was world class, credit has to be given to the whole Arsenal squad. It was the best I have seen them play in a long time!. The new formation worked fantastically for them, and I hope they continue to use it in future matches. As for Bristol, the question is how do they bounce back from a result like this?.

At the end of the match, we waited to meet the players and get some items signed. We realised it was best to wait in the car park and thankfully we decided to go out there at the right time. As we walked into the car park, I noticed Leah was getting into her car. I did not want to stop her but Tommy told me just to ask and see what she says. Leah was lovely and signed my shirt, I then congratulated her on her goal and thanked her for her time (massive thank you to Tommy for convincing me to ask!).

This was the last match I could attend this year, and what a match it was!. Arsenal made history with the largest WSL victory and I got to witness a masterclass by Miedema. This result also makes the league more interesting, with Arsenal now sitting top on goal difference. It's so tough to predict who is going to take the title this year, with Chelsea currently unbeaten and Man City/Arsenal both looking strong. My call at the start of the season was Arsenal, and after yesterday I still think they will win the league again. With the league so close, I cannot wait for more WSL experiences next year!. 

Miedema put in a world class performance