Published: 19 April, 2012
by CATHERINE ETOE

ARSENAL Ladies face a battle to make the Champions League final after losing 2-1 at home to Frankfurt on Sunday, but club captain Faye White says that “a big performance” can turn the tie around

Ciara Grant equalised for the Gunners after Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic had put the visitors ahead just after the hour in front of more than 800 fans at Boreham Wood FC.

The home side looked to have done enough to match a team that boasted World Cup winners among its roster.

But veteran Germany midfielder Kerstin Garafrekes scored in the dying seconds to leave Laura Harvey’s side disappointed but not disheartened.

“I think we gave them a good run for their money and we’re unfortunate to come out of it with a loss,” said White.

Arsenal travel to the three-times’ Women’s UEFA Cup winners on Saturday needing to score two goals without reply to win.

White is still returning from injury and won’t make the trip, but remains confident that her team-mates can hold their own. “It will be tough and Frankfurt have been playing well at home in the Champions League but we’ll try to score and I’m confident in the team,” she said. “We still believe we can do it and it’s going to take a big performance.”

White also revealed she will miss the Olympics and that it is unlikely she will play for her country again after announcing she is expecting her first child.

The 34-year-old, who has won 90 England caps, said: “I’m pregnant and I’m going to be a mum for the first time in October. I’ve spoken to England coach Hope Powell and this will more or less signal the end.”