WSL recap: Arsenal takes control in the North London derby, while Brighton narrowly wins a five-goal showdown with West Ham.

**Arsenal Thrash Spurs in Dominant North London Derby**

In a commanding display, Arsenal triumphed over Tottenham Hotspur with a resounding 3-0 victory in the latest North London derby. The Gunners showcased their attacking prowess at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with goals from Alessia Russo, Frida Maanum, and the ever-impactful Stina Blackstenius sealing the deal. Russo’s opener came alarmingly early, just 63 seconds into the match, setting the tone for a one-sided affair.

This defeat marks the second consecutive week that Spurs have conceded an early goal, having previously allowed Manchester City to score after just 24 seconds in their last outing. The early setback seemed to rattle the hosts, who struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match.

Arsenal’s dominance was evident as they carved through the Spurs defense with ease. Maanum capitalized on a defensive lapse to extend the lead in the 22nd minute, firing a low shot into the bottom corner. Despite a few bright moments from Spurs, including a lively performance from Hayley Raso, they failed to convert their chances. Arsenal’s goalkeeper, Daphne van Domselaar, was called into action to deny Bethany England with a superb save, but the visitors remained in control.

After the break, Spurs attempted to regroup by switching to a back five, enjoying more possession but lacking the cutting edge needed to threaten Arsenal. The Gunners, however, were not to be denied. Substitute Blackstenius made an immediate impact, scoring in the 67th minute after a clever assist from Caldentey. This goal prompted a mass exodus of Spurs fans, while the traveling Arsenal supporters celebrated a derby to remember.

With this victory, Arsenal continues to chase league leaders Manchester City, sitting just four points behind, while Spurs find themselves in seventh place, looking nervously over their shoulders at the teams below them.

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**Brighton Edge Past West Ham in Thrilling Encounter**

In the early kick-off at the Amex Stadium, Brighton & Hove Albion secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over West Ham United, moving them into the top three of the Women’s Super League. The Seagulls, looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat to Arsenal, took control early on, with defender Rachel McLauchlan netting her first WSL goal just before the half-hour mark. This goal was set up by Fran Kirby, who reached a significant milestone with her 100th goal involvement in the league.

Brighton doubled their lead shortly after the break when summer signing Kiko Seike scored her first goal since a hat-trick in the season opener. However, West Ham refused to go down without a fight. Skipper Katrina Gorry scored twice in quick succession, bringing the Hammers back into contention. Unfortunately for Gorry, her afternoon ended prematurely due to a shoulder injury sustained while attempting a sliding tackle.

With the match finely poised, Seike turned provider for Kirby, who scored her 66th WSL goal, restoring Brighton’s lead. Despite West Ham’s relentless search for an equalizer, the hosts held firm to secure all three points, solidifying their position in the upper echelons of the table.

As the weekend concluded, it was a historic moment for the WSL, with all 11 matches played at the clubs’ main stadiums for the first time. This milestone showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of women’s football in England.