Tottenham Hotspur Women face Arsenal in a key Women's Super League derby at Brisbane Road on Saturday afternoon. The match comes after a pair of heavy defeats that have stalled the team's promising start to the season.
Their recent form shows two wins, a draw and two losses, with the last two results being particularly damaging. They were beaten 6-2 by Chelsea last weekend and suffered a 6-1 home defeat to London City Lionesses earlier this month. Their overall record of three wins, one draw and two losses from six games has them on 10 points, with a goal difference of plus four after scoring 18 and conceding 14.
The primary concern is a defence that has conceded 12 goals in those two matches alone. Across the season, they have let in 14 goals while scoring 18. Victoria Pelova, the team's top scorer with five goals, found the net in the loss to London City Lionesses, and Matilda Vinberg and Signe Gaupset scored against Chelsea. Vinberg's goal came in the 41st minute assisted by Julie Blakstad, while Gaupset netted in the 87th minute. But individual contributions have been overshadowed by collective defensive lapses.
Arsenal arrive in eighth place, having drawn 1-1 with Birmingham City last time out. Their recent record includes a loss to Manchester City and a draw with Paris FC in the Champions League. The last meeting between these sides ended in a 4-1 victory for Arsenal back in February. Tottenham's next fixture is this home clash with Arsenal on Saturday 24 October.
The last starting lineup featured Lize Kop in goal, with a back four of Ella Morris, T. Koga, Amanda Nildén and Julie Blakstad. The midfield trio of Signe Gaupset, Spence and Matilda Vinberg supported forwards Victoria Pelova, Holdt and Tandberg.
Arsenal's probable side includes Misa Rodriguez, Ona Batlle, Williamson, Wubben-Moy and Holmberg in defence. Their midfield and attack could feature Stanway, Cooney-Cross, Baum, Olivia Smith, Russo and Blackstenius.
A positive result is vital for Tottenham to stay in touch with the top three. They have a full week to prepare after this fixture before their next WSL match. Kick-off at Brisbane Road is at 12:45pm on Saturday.
