Crystal Palace Women earn point in WSL stalemate with Arsenal

Crystal Palace Women produced a resilient defensive display to hold Arsenal to a goalless draw in the Women's Super League last weekend. The point earned at Selhurst Park lifts the promoted side to sixth in the table with four points from their opening two matches, having earned 1.33 points per game in their recent form.

Goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin was instrumental, making a string of fine saves against the club she previously played for. Arsenal struck the crossbar twice but could not find a way past the organised Palace defence, which has now kept the opposition to an average of just 0.67 goals per game over their recent matches.

Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers acknowledged her team's need to be more clinical in front of goal. "What is really important for us is we know we can finish, score goals," Slegers told reporters after the match. She also reflected on the broader context of her team's start, adding, "It is double, of course we are proud, but at the same time there are some draws in there."

For Crystal Palace Women, the result builds on their opening-day victory over Everton. Lauren Lloyd-Smith's 34th-minute strike secured a 1-0 win in that fixture, meaning the Eagles remain unbeaten with a goal difference of plus one. The team's recent form shows they have been averaging 1.33 goals per game.

The focus now shifts to a London derby this Sunday. Crystal Palace Women host Tottenham Hotspur, who currently sit fourth in the table. It represents another significant test for Laura Kaminski's side as they look to consolidate their promising start to life in the top flight. Fans can check the details for this and all upcoming games on the official fixtures page.

This story first appeared at africa.espn.com