The high-flying Gunners have a golden opportunity to extend their unbeaten record, whilst keeping an eye on the possible title charge that could open up in the coming weeks.

Arsenal will host Reading to the Hive this evening and despite three draws since the Spring Series began at the end of April, their 1-0 win over Manchester City could have implications on where the two sides finish in the race for Champions League qualification places.

Form and previous meeting

Wins against Birmingham and Manchester City were important to keep Pedro Martinez Losa’s side on track after a rocky start.

The Royals battled hard to draw 1-1 with Birmingham themselves this past weekend, especially with a numerical disadvantage after Jo Potter’s dismissal in first-half stoppage time.

Having met on three occasions during the FA WSL 2016 season, their most recent encounter was during the Continental Cup back in July.

Arsenal progressed into the second-round with a 3-1 victory, courtesy of strikes by Vicky Losada and a Fara Williams brace. Emma Follis netted a consolation goal for Reading’s efforts.

Next, Jordan Nobbs, one to watch…

One to watch

Jordan Nobbs’ swerving free-kick effort from range sealed all three points in their smash-and-grab victory over Manchester City last time out, and she could feature very heavily from midfield once again here.

A late strike in the dying embers helped secure a point away against Chelsea and she’ll be eager to continue her impressive goalscoring run.

Next, Player quotes…

Player quotes

Arsenal goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal has stressed the importance of a victory here, not least given their current situation in the league standings.

“There are two more games and we need two more wins. Wednesday’s game is just as important as the Manchester City one – that’s what we need to understand; it’s every single game [that we need to perform at a high level].

“We’re growing and working hard on the pitch. It’s going to be a different game, but against a great team,” she continued.

“Reading have played well in their recent games. It’s going to be a tough game again, albeit a different one. We know how we want to play, and we’ll be making a plan [to contain Reading’s attacking system] and will put our heads together. We need to keep growing and produce two more good games to end the Spring Series.”

Reading defender Mandy van den Berg insisted that tough fixtures are a regular occurrence in the league and the side are keen to recover from lacklustre results to surprise many with a good performance on this occasion.

“We will recover from the Birmingham one, and go to Arsenal full of confidence. We’ve learnt some really good lessons during the Spring Series so far. All this stuff we can use for going into the winter league after the Euros, so that is great.”

Kick-off is scheduled for a 7.30pm (BST) start at the Hive and tickets are still available. They will be sold on the gate on matchday itself, and the Ladies will be keen to impress at home here.