Manchester City’s Jill Scott tries to get to grips with Gunners’ tough-tackling defender Leah Williamson. Picture: the FA via Getty Images

Published: 28 August, 2014
by STEVE BARNETT

ARSENAL Ladies player-coach Kelly Smith hailed the impact of England midfielder Jordan Nobbs after the 21-year-old scored a stunning opening goal in Sunday’s emphatic 4-0 win at Manchester City. 

Nobbs, who has missed the majority of the Women’s Super League season through injury, sparked the game into life after just five minutes with a sublime strike from 40-yards. Further goals from Danielle Carter, Rachel Yankey and Casey Stoney ensured a memorable victory for the visitors – one that Smith believes gave the team a much needed lift. “I’m really pleased with the performance that we put in from the first minute through to the last. I thought we were outstanding in terms of energy, tempo and desire,” said Smith. 

“It was exactly what I asked from the players before the game. It’s been a long time because we haven’t played for over a month. Our season’s been very disrupted so it’s really pleasing to win, especially with four fantastic goals. 

“The early goal settled the nerves. Jordan has that in her locker. It’s pleasing because she’s missed a lot of the season, so to get a spectacular goal like that is great for her and is a great help to us.” 

It capped a fantastic week for Nobbs, who, along with Arsenal team-mates Alex Scott, Casey Stoney and Sio Chamberlain, was part of the England squad which sailed through to next year’s World Cup finals in Canada with a thumping 4-0 win over Wales. 

Goals from Karen Carney, Eniola Aluko, Laura Bassett and Lianne Sanderson earned the victory for the Three Lionesses, who ended their impressive qualifying campaign with a 100 per cent record, scoring a staggering 42 goals along the way and conceding just once.