Mead magic helps Arsenal beat Brighton to extend WSL lead

Arsenal extended their WSL lead to four points after a Beth Mead-inspired comeback saw them beat Brighton 2-1 at Meadow Park.

The Gunners, who had lost and drawn their previous two games, were in danger of handing the initiative to second-placed Chelsea as their out-of-form visitors, who had not scored in more than 460 minutes, were nodded in front by Emma Koivisto from a 15th-minute free-kick.

That would have opened the door for the Blues to wrestle the lead at the top of the WSL away from the Gunners, who looked short on confidence and largely devoid of ideas before half-time.

An unrecognisable second-half performance was rewarded 10 minutes after the break as Mead's free-kick was prodded home by Vivianne Miedema for a first goal since December 12.

Five minutes later, another moment of Mead magic from a set-piece saw the Gunners in front as her curling free-kick into the far corner left Megan Walsh helpless.

Miedema threatened to add to the hosts' advantage, but ultimately the hosts were relieved to hear the final whistle - and move four points clear at the top of the WSL.

More to follow...