(Getty Images)
England forward Beth Mead made a vital contribution on her first appearance in 11 months, creating the winner for Alessia Russo as Arsenal scored twice in added time to beat Aston Villa 2-1.
Trailing to Maz Pacheco’s first-half strike, the hosts looked like making it three matches without a win as they headed into 12 minutes of added time.
But Katie McCabe equalised and then Mead, on as an 87th-minute substitute after recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, laid on the pass for Russo to score as Arsenal became only the third WSL side to win a game after trailing in the 90th minute.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Match ends, Arsenal Women 2, Aston Villa Women 1.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Second Half ends, Arsenal Women 2, Aston Villa Women 1.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Offside, Arsenal Women. Katie McCabe tries a through ball, but Stina Blackstenius is caught offside.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Attempt blocked. Stina Blackstenius (Arsenal Women) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Caitlin Foord.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Foul by Cloé Lacasse (Arsenal Women).
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Foul by Kim Little (Arsenal Women).
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Substitution, Aston Villa Women. Alisha Lehmann replaces Lucy Parker.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Substitution, Aston Villa Women. Adriana Leon replaces Sarah Mayling.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Attempt missed. Lucy Staniforth (Aston Villa Women) right footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left from a direct free kick.
Arsenal vs Aston Villa
Hand ball by Victoria Pelova (Arsenal Women).
