Montemurro left wanting more after ‘frustrating’ Arsenal victory

News Desk
Montemurro F365
Joe Montemurro Arsenal

Joe Montemurro was left lamenting a “frustrating” 2-0 Arsenal win over Brighton on Sunday, even though it kept them ahead of Man United in the WSL.

Jordan Nobbs scored twice as the Gunners claimed a 2-0 win to stay in the hunt for third place in the Women’s Super League and a Champions League spot for next season.

But Brighton were well in the game and should have made it 1-1 early in the second half through Emily Simpkins.


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“It was a bit frustrating,” Montemurro said. “We created some good chances but we let them in the game.

“The reality is the only chance they created was through our error, we had a few wayward passes.

“Today we wanted to play too quick, too early but if we had changed the tempo we would have been more secure and successful. These things happen in the ebbs and flows of seasons.”

Nobbs started the game on the right but switched to the left where she got her two goals, and Montemurro added: “We felt Jordan coming from outside in off the left-hand side would suit us better.”

Arsenal are now looking ahead to Wednesday’s clash with West Ham, where a win would open up a gap on Manchester United.

Montemurro is taking nothing for granted, and said: “It’s going to be difficult on Wednesday. They’re a very direct team. It’s going to be up to us to make sure our attitude is right and make sure our approach is spot on.”

Brighton manager Hope Powell felt “proud” of her side’s performance.

“If I base it on past performances, I thought today was the best we’ve competed against them in the league.

“We know they’re technically very good and cover the ground quickly. Even though we lost I was really pleased with the attitude.”

“At times they (Arsenal) looked a bit nervous in the defensive third and that’s testimony to how far our players have come.

“For us at this stage, it’s about can we perform? Can we compete? Can we make it difficult for them? And at times we did that well today.”

Montemurro was full of praise for the way Powell set up the Seagulls, and said: “I congratulated Hope on the excellent work she has done in the last two or three years. They are a real positive in the WSL and I applaud Brighton.”