Arsenal beat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield as Alessia Russo scored twice, while Manchester United secured a 1-0 victory at Aston Villa with a late winner from Julia Zigiotti Olme.
Russo put Arsenal ahead after eight minutes, controlling Emily Fox’s pass before producing a composed finish. Liverpool responded swiftly, with Beata Olsson escaping Leah Williamson and finding the net seven minutes later.
Arsenal restored their advantage before half-time when Russo arrived at the far post to head in Lisa Baum’s delivery. The forward went close to completing her hat-trick after the interval as the visitors looked to put the result beyond doubt.
Liverpool continued to threaten and were presented with an opportunity to level late on, but Cornelia Kapocs was unable to make contact with a dangerous ball into the area. Arsenal held on for three points, with Russo named player of the match.
Manchester United were made to work harder for their win at Aston Villa despite dominating possession in the first half. They recorded 12 shots and had 66 per cent of the ball before the break, but Villa goalkeeper Akane Okuma kept them at bay.
Villa improved after half-time and nearly punished United for their missed chances when Jean-Francois forced an excellent save from Phallon Tullis-Joyce.
United finally broke through in the 72nd minute. Hanna Lundkvist’s ball across the box found Zigiotti Olme at the far post, and she calmly slotted home.
Aston Villa pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Manchester United defended their lead to claim all three points.
