Share this @internewscast.com

One set-piece, two controversial refereeing decisions and a superb performance by goalkeeper Khiara Keating ensured Manchester City’s progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals.

Both teams were chasing their first piece of silverware in some time, with Arsenal having won just one trophy in the last five years.

The first half was cagey as the sides kept possession rather than taking a more risky approach that would leave them vulnerable to a counter-attack.

England manager Sarina Wiegman, who was watching in the stands, will have been pleased to see her captain Leah Williamson put in a strong performance in just her second start since returning from an ACL injury. She was Arsenal’s best player for large spells, switching play with pinpoint diagonal passes and clearing a Shaw header off the line.

Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating produced an excellent display against Arsenal

Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating produced an excellent display against Arsenal

But it was City who finally broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute through a Kelly set-piece. The England international sent her free-kick into the box and the ball fell for Laia Aleixandri, who gratefully poked home.

The goal breathed life into the game and Arsenal responded through Beth Mead moments later, who delivered a superb cross to Victoria Pelova. The 24-year-old was unlucky not to find the net, Keating making an excellent save.

Keating was called into action again moments later, saving a shot from Kim Little which looked to have crossed the line. But without goal-line technology, City maintained their lead. Another penalty shout from Stina Blackstenius was also waved away.

Gunners manager Jonas Eidevall expressed his frustration at the refereeing. He said: ‘We’re on the wrong side of the margins. If that ball is over the line or not, if that’s a penalty or not, those are difficult decisions to deal with right now.’

Kim Little's shot looked to have crossed the line but goal-line technology wasn't in place

Kim Little’s shot looked to have crossed the line but goal-line technology wasn’t in place

Arsenal Women manager Jonas Eidevall expressed his frustration with the refereeing

Arsenal Women manager Jonas Eidevall expressed his frustration with the refereeing

Arsenal have now suffered back-to-back defeats, having surprisingly lost 1-0 to West Ham last weekend.

Elsewhere in the FA Cup, Nottingham Forest were on the end of a 7-1 thumping at home to Everton, who had seven different goalscorers, including an own-goal. Manchester United beat Southampton 3-1. Ella Toone scored an early goal before Lexi Lloyd-Smith levelled, but a late brace from Rachel Williams won it. 

Brighton beat Wolves 4-1, Emma Kullberg’s first goal of her hat-trick coming in the 88th minute. A goal for Mayra Ramirez eased Chelsea past Crystal Palace and Liverpool beat London City Lionesses 2-0.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Noni Madueke Expresses Gratitude to Chelsea Fans for Criticism Following His Controversial £52m Move to Arsenal, Risking Backlash at Stamford Bridge

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of England international Noni Madueke from Chelsea…

Oleksandr Usyk reflects on how childhood poverty fueled his rise to undisputed glory as he prepares for the rematch with Daniel Dubois

The world according to Oleksandr The Great ‘is one huge psychiatric clinic…

Philadelphia Eagles Celebrate Super Bowl Ring Ceremony in Grand Style with Their Partners

Eagles players finally received their Super Bowl rings on Friday night as…

AC Milan and PUMA Unveil Unexpected Golf Apparel Collection

AC Milan has partnered with PUMA to launch a unique lifestyle collection…

Brendan Rodgers’ Future at Celtic Uncertain Due to Concerns Over Transfer Strategy and Potential Exit Fears

Even before last season’s finishing line was in sight, speculation about who’d…

Uncovering Chelsea’s Club World Cup Victory: Enzo Maresca’s Tactical Magic, Cole Palmer’s Family Connection, and Noni Madueke’s Medal Laugh

When Chelsea were based in Philadelphia four weeks ago, Robert Sanchez arranged…

I was the final transfer from Manchester United to Liverpool – No regrets, and my wife was the only one concerned

Liverpool have reportedly floated the idea of pursuing a deal for Manchester…

Arsenal Beats Liverpool to Sign Top EFL Talent Endorsed by Gary Neville and David Beckham

Arsenal have beaten Liverpool to the signing of Salford City starlet Will…

Nottingham Forest Unveils Stylish Home Kit for 2025/26 Season in Celebration of 160th Anniversary

Nottingham Forest has unveiled an eye-catching new home kit for the 2025/26…

Recent Footage Reveals Donald Trump Obtaining a Club World Cup MEDAL and Retaining the Original Trophy in the Oval Office

New footage has shown US President Donald Trump receiving a winners’ medal…