Vivianne Miedema hit a sensational double hat-trick as reigning champions Arsenal recorded the biggest victory in Women’s Super League history by thrashing winless Bristol City 11-1.
Holland forward Miedema, who was the division’s top scorer in 2018-19, netted three times in each half and also provided four assists as the Gunners ran riot to move top of the table.
The result surpassed Liverpool’s 9-0 success over Doncaster Belles in 2013.
Lisa Evans netted a brace, while Jordan Nobbs, Leah Williamson and substitute Emma Mitchell were also on target for Joe Montemurro’s side.
Arsenal, who beat their opponents 7-0 in the Continental League Cup only 10 days ago, had 32 shots during Sunday’s game.
Struggling Bristol City, who are now eight games without victory this term, pulled one back five minutes from time when Yana Daniels scored on the rebound after her penalty was saved by Gunners goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger.
The record-breaking result saw Arsenal leapfrog second-placed Manchester City, who beat bottom club Liverpool 1-0, on goal difference.
England defender Gemma Bonner converted Caroline Weir’s 20th-minute free-kick to settle the contest in City’s favour, leaving the visitors propping up the division on a single point.
Previous leaders Chelsea dropped to third after their game at Everton was postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Elsewhere, Katharina Baunach scored two free-kicks, including a late winner, as West Ham twice came from behind to beat Manchester United 3-2.
Goals from United duo Kirsty Hanson and Lauren James were cancelled out by Laura Vetterlein and Baunach’s first.
German Baunach then curled home a 90th-minute set-piece after Hammers striker Leanne Kiernan was moments earlier dismissed for a second booking.
