Arsenal Women’s bid for the Barclays FA Women’s Super League title suffered another major blow on Sunday with a frustrating 1-1 draw against Everton.

A late equaliser from 16-year-old substitute Issy Hobson cancelled out Alessia Russo’s opener, leaving Arsenal’s title ambitions hanging by a thread.

Arsenal Women’s quest for the WSL title suffered a dramatic setback as a 95th-minute equaliser from 16-year-old substitute Issy Hobson earned Everton a 1-1 draw at Walton Hall. Alessia Russo’s late goal looked to have sealed a crucial victory for the Gunners, but Everton’s persistence from set pieces ultimately cost Arsenal dearly.

Hobson’s debut senior goal not only salvaged a point for Everton but also delivered a significant blow to Arsenal’s title aspirations. The young forward’s joy was evident in her post-match comments: “I’ve been at Everton for my whole life so it’s even more special… It’s something I’ve been dreaming of since I started playing football and for it to contribute to getting a draw against Arsenal is the best feeling ever.”

The frustrating result was compounded by Arsenal’s numerous missed chances throughout the match. Stina Blackstenius was denied early on, and Victoria Pelova squandered a golden opportunity from close range after the break.

Everton also posed a threat at times, with Karen Holmgaard striking the crossbar with a header.

Arsenal’s dominance finally paid off in the 79th minute when Russo pounced on a rebound to find the back of the net. However, Arsenal failed to see out the win, succumbing to Everton’s pressure from a corner that allowed Hobson to head in the late equaliser.

The draw leaves Arsenal needing a miracle, five points behind leaders Manchester City with two games to play, while City also have a game in hand. Should City win later today, Arsenal’s title hopes will be officially over.

Arsenal’s next fixture is a season-defining clash against Manchester City on May 5th.

A loss in that match would confirm City as champions.