The UEFA Women’s Champions League took hold of North London on Wednesday. Arsenal Women hosting Bayern Munich Ladies in the Quarter final stage, at the Emirates Stadium. In front of a crowd of over twenty-one thousand spectators. Last time the teams met, the Germans came out narrow winners in Munich, winning by a single goal. Gunners’ superstar Beth Mead recently announcing her involvement at this year’s world cup is a faint hope.
Reaching the Emirates Stadium is simple to do. Approachable by many transport links. Making travel to the Gunners ground easy, by rail or motor vehicle. Subject to Strike action or planned engineering work. Which remains common in the modern day. Similar to my previous visit. Using the tube is the preferred choice for most fans arriving at a match day. As a result of Arsenal, Finsbury Park and Highbury & Islington being walking distance to the arena. A piccadilly service from Heathrow Airport itself to the Emirates Stadium offering an easy-going travel option for Bavarian supporters.
When leaving their chosen station. Supporters can expect to be greeted by a flurry of stalls, offering food and merchandise. All based on arsenal men. Nothing on offer for the women’s sides. Approaching the ground was a lack of atmosphere or activities around the match. Leaving fans to find options of entertainment, as the rain began to become heavier. This also continued after entering the arena, as the vast concourse failed to get excitement up for the game. With the start getting closer. Announcements over the speakers started. The first of which warning against abusive behaviour, followed by an introduction to the fixture. Shown in sign language too. Proceeding this the big screen displayed a quiz allowing contestants to win an arsenal woman training zip. Ending with a brief congratulations to the arsenal women under sixteen team. Who successfully finished their season invincible. Being presented with a signed shirt by club and country legend Beth mead. A light show in the final moments before kick-off came as well.
On the pitch. Arsenal women were much the better team in the initial exchanges. Dominating play. Whilst their opposition picked up the pace. Sending the ball through Katie McCabe’s legs, creating a pleasant cheer from the stands. Including a handful of travelling support. No more than fifty. Kim little being forced off with an early injury. Replaced by lionesses’ legend Lotte Woburn Moy. Breaking the deadlock seven minutes later, Frida Maanum found the back of the net. An incredible effort flinging into the net. One which will live in home fans memories for many days to come. Doubling the tally. Stina Blackstenius stuck her header into the goal. Striking the woodwork, substitute Lotte let one fly before the break. Getting the second half underway. It was Katie McCabe and Caitlin ford who had chances. Providing entertainment in a disappointing second period.
Arsenal eventually saw the game out to the end. Securing a spot in the semi-finals of the Women’s champions league, giving gunners hopes of cup glory. Should they taste success in an Eindhoven based showdown.
Comments