Gareth Taylor is hoping his side will "capitalise" on the swift turnaround following Manchester City’s Conti Cup clash with Arsenal on Wednesday evening, with the semi-final viewed as a "warm-up" heading into the WSL clash on Saturday.
City fell to a 1-0 defeat at Meadow Park courtesy of Stina Blackstenius’ extra-time goal. The defeat ended City’s Conti Cup run and their impressive 17-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.
A tactical stand-off played out on Wednesday night between the two sides who sit level on points in the WSL. Arsenal goalkeeper Sabrina D'Angelo did brilliantly to deny City a winner in normal time, and despite an impressive defensive display from City’s backline, Blackstenius' deflected extra-time goal proved to be the difference.
After the match, Taylor expressed his pride in City’s performance, though he conceded a lack of edge in the final third cost them.
Nevertheless, with just over 48 hours before City welcome Arsenal to the Academy Stadium in the WSL, Taylor was confident that his side can fire themselves into title contention against league leaders Chelsea.
“I think it’s one where we dust ourselves down and get ready. We have to capitalise on them travelling up as well. Same for both teams, neither manager wanted extra time tonight,” he told City’s in-house media.
“I always felt better playing two games in three days. The first game felt like a warm-up and you might not feel good in those days between the games, but I think once the whistle blows on Saturday, the players will be ready.”
Alanna Kennedy and Laia Aleixandri were both substituted late on due to injury. Taylor said the players still required assessment, but that pitch conditions near the corner flags likely caused some issues.
“I think Arsenal were similar. The pitch conditions tonight probably weren’t great in the corners. Quite icy. So we have to check in with the players but regardless, we’ll be there Saturday.”
City remain level on points with third-place Arsenal in the WSL table but are behind them on goal difference. Nevertheless, with five points separating the pair from leaders Chelsea and Arsenal holding a game in hand, the need for a win is likely to produce another tense match-up.
Kick-off between City and Arsenal is at 12:30 on Saturday.
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