Stina Blackstenius struck in the 93rd minute as Arsenal edged Everton 1-0, moving into second place in the Women’s Super League. The late winner at Emirates Stadium kept Arsenal ahead of Chelsea and confirmed Manchester City as champions, while intensifying the fight for the remaining positions.

The victory means Arsenal travel to Liverpool for the final league fixture knowing a win secures second spot. Chelsea remain close behind, so any slip could change the standings, but Arsenal now control their own fate after collecting three crucial points against a disciplined Everton side.

Arsenal’s dominance over Everton in the Women’s Super League continues to grow with this narrow result. Arsenal lost the first league meeting between the clubs in July 2011, yet have avoided defeat in all 24 encounters since then. That sequence includes 21 victories and three draws, the highest win count of one team against another in the competition.

This match also doubled as Beth Mead’s final home appearance for Arsenal, adding extra emotion around the ground. Earlier in the week it was confirmed that Mead will leave Arsenal at the end of the season. Mead has created more chances (390) and delivered more assists (54) in the Women’s Super League than any other player in the competition’s history.

Mead almost marked the farewell with a goal, striking the woodwork twice as Arsenal pushed for a breakthrough. Everton defended deep and restricted clear chances, but the decisive incident arrived in stoppage time. Leah Williamson challenged goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan during a set-piece, the officials allowed play to continue, and Blackstenius reacted quickest to convert from close range.

Blackstenius continued a strong record as an impact substitute in this campaign. Blackstenius has now played a part in eight WSL goals after coming off the bench this season (six goals, two assists). Against Everton, Blackstenius needed only one effort and a total of five touches to decide the contest.

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Mead remained heavily involved before being withdrawn on 64 minutes to a loud ovation from the Emirates Stadium crowd. Mead attempted four shots yet failed to hit the target, but still troubled the Everton defence with movement and delivery. The applause offered a fitting farewell to Mead’s long spell at the ground.

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Arsenal now turn attention to the trip to Liverpool, where three more points would guarantee second place behind Manchester City. Mead prepares to leave having shaped the Women’s Super League era for Arsenal, while Blackstenius’ late contribution keeps Chelsea behind. Everton leave with no reward, yet pushed Arsenal deep into stoppage time.