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.
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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.