Substitute Stina Blackstenius came up trumps to earn Arsenal a much-needed 2-1 victory over Women's Super League strugglers Liverpool.

Former Reds forward Olivia Smith put the Gunners ahead at the Emirates Stadium but Beata Olsson levelled for Liverpool.

Time was running out for Arsenal before, three minutes from time, Blackstenius fired in the winner to earn Renee Slegers' side a first victory in three league matches.

The home side made the stronger start without testing Faye Kirby, while there was a nervous moment at the other end for debutante Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe, who came charging out after Olsson ran in behind, but the Liverpool striker could not keep her feet.

Lotte Wubben-Moy then headed Mariona Caldentey's deep cross against a post from very close range and, in the 16th minute, Arsenal did take the lead, Smith wriggling past two defenders and sending a low shot inside Kirby's near post.

The home side seemed in complete control but Liverpool, who held Chelsea to a draw last time out, levelled with half an hour gone, Mia Enderby playing in Olsson, who continued her fine form by slotting past Borbe.

Frustration grew for Arsenal in the second half as chances came and went.

Kirby would have been disappointed with the goal she conceded but she twice produced good saves to deny Alessia Russo, who also shot wide, while Caitlin Foord sent an effort high over the bar.

Blackstenius looked certain to score with 10 minutes left after seizing on Gemma Evans' underhit backpass but Kirby held up the Swede and Evans atoned for her error by getting back to divert the shot wide.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 87th minute, Blackstenius running onto Caldentey's long ball and sending a shot-on-the-turn into the top corner.