Beth Mead’s brace lifts Arsenal over Chelsea in London Derby

Arsenal started their season off in thrilling fashion, beating Chelsea 3-2 at home in Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Vivianne Miedema put Arsenal up 1-0 early, getting in behind Chelsea’s backline and firing a low shot into the near post. The score marked Miedema’s 61st goal in 68 Women’s Super League games.

Meanwhile in London… Miedema does not disappoint 😵🔴 pic.twitter.com/tNvv0nQPY0

— ata football (@atafball) September 5, 2021

Chelsea responded just before the break, with Erin Cuthbert rifling a shot past the keeper from close range to make it 1-1.

Chelsea get the equalizer! What a game 👀 pic.twitter.com/EeduKIPdts

— ata football (@atafball) September 5, 2021

A pair of goals from Beth Mead early in the second half put Arsenal ahead of Chelsea once again. First, the English striker split Chelsea’s center backs and delivered a rocket into the far post.

Beth Mead. That’s it. That’s the tweet. pic.twitter.com/mXq8Agxzpi

— ata football (@atafball) September 5, 2021

After a well-executed build-up play, Mead beat the keeper to score her second goal and give Arsenal a 3-1 lead.

What’s better than a Beth Mead goal? A Beth Mead brace ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/eSX3itCBeg

— ata football (@atafball) September 5, 2021

Chelsea attempted a comeback late into the second half, with Pernille heading in a corner kick in the 64^th minute to cut into Arsenal’s lead.

PERNILLE HARDER 💙

How are we feeling ata fam?? Tell us in the comments below… we’ll go first 🤯🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/EEqn4JBpVR

— ata football (@atafball) September 5, 2021

Arsenal held on until the final whistle, defeating the 2020 FA WSL champions for their first win of the season.

Next up: Chelsea will look to rebound against Everton on Sept. 12. Arsenal will met Reading on the same day.