Arsenal Women's search for goals remains a pressing concern despite a dramatic late equaliser against Manchester United. Smilla Holmberg scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium, rescuing a point after Julia Zigiotti Olme had put the visitors ahead in the 67th minute.

The result leaves Arsenal sixth in the FA Women's Super League table with five points from three matches. They have scored just two goals in that time, a statistic that shows the problem. Their unbeaten start this season reads as two draws and a win, but the lack of cutting edge is evident.

A familiar pattern

Holmberg's goal, assisted by captain Leah Williamson, ended a prolonged drought in open play. Before that moment, Arsenal had not scored since the 10th minute of their season-opening 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on September 6. They were then held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace a week later. The pattern continued for most of the United match, with the team struggling to create clear chances against a disciplined defence.

Manchester United manager Eva Olid highlighted her team's defensive focus in the build-up. "The focus this week was the defensive shape, tactics in defense and basics in defense," Olid said. Her side, which had lost 5-0 to Chelsea in its previous outing, was far more resilient. "Nobody wants to lose 5-0," she added. "We grew as a team."

For Arsenal, the draw means they have already dropped four points this season. They now sit four points behind league leaders Manchester City, who have won all three of their opening fixtures. The gap is a concern for a squad that has not won the WSL title in seven years, despite significant summer investment.

The wider context

The team's recent form shows three wins and two draws from their last five matches in all competitions, but the league form is more mixed. Arsenal's next test is a daunting trip to face Chelsea, who are third, on September 27. That match is part of a critical run of away games that also includes a visit to Manchester City, making an immediate improvement in attack essential.

Last season, Arsenal finished too far behind the leaders to mount a serious challenge even when City dropped points late on. To avoid a repeat, they must start converting possession and pressure into goals. The club's fixtures list a busy period ahead, with the UEFA Women's Champions League group stage also beginning soon. Manager Jonas Eidevall will need to find solutions quickly, with the team's squad depth likely to be tested.

Holmberg's late intervention provided a valuable point, but it papered over a persistent issue. Arsenal Women face Chelsea at Kingsmeadow in six days.

First reported at espn.com