Arsenal close gap on leaders

3:58pm Friday 23rd December 2005

Arsenal built on their impressive recent form by thrashing Bristol Academy 5-1 in the FA Women's Premier League on Sunday to go into the Christmas break within touching distance of league leaders Charlton Athletic.

In their last six league and cup outings they have hit the net an incredible 29 times while conceding just once, and in the process the Gunners have reached the final of the Premier League Cup as well as putting themselves within striking distance of the national division summit.

Arsenal proved once again why they have been so successful this season but had to wait until the second half to get amongst the goals.

Patience was required unlike their last home match against Chelsea which saw the Gunners go 4-0 up inside 15 minutes.

On an icy pitch both teams had to contend with difficult playing conditions but Arsenal's relentless attacking and pressure was rewarded with two goals straight after the interval from Julie Fleeting. Bristol then became the first side to breach Arsenal's defence in six games three minutes later.

However, Arsenal would not be denied the win and added three more goals in the last 25 minutes through Ludlow, Smith and Sanderson. That leaves the North Londoners just three points behind Charlton going into the Christmas break.

The ladies' next match is a league fixture away at Cardiff City on Sunday, January 8.