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Stina Blackstenius scored a controversial winner in stoppage time as Arsenal moved up to second in the Women’s Super League with victory over Everton.

After struggling to break through Everton’s defence in normal time, substitute Blackstenius struck in the 93rd minute to send Arsenal fans into a frenzy.

But Everton were livid, believing Lotte Wubben-Moy was offside and that goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan was fouled by Leah Williamson in the build-up.

Brosnan stayed down and received treatment following the goal and she appeared to be in tears as the full-time whistle blew.

It was an agonising end for the visitors, who offered little going forward but stood firm defensively, fending off 16 shots from Renee Slegers’ side.

Following Monday’s announcement that Beth Mead will depart at the end of the season after a nine-year spell and 264 appearances at the club, the 31-year-old hit the crossbar twice in the first half but could not bow out at the Emirates with a goal.

Laia Codina, who will also leave the club after three years, thought she had opened the scoring after the break when she poked in, but her celebrations were cut short by the offside flag.

Arsenal dominated possession and were a constant threat, with Olivia Smith rattling the crossbar and Brosnan stopping an Alessia Russo effort.

The win lifts Arsenal two points above third-placed Chelsea.

With one game left, the Gunners will hope to hold on to second place to secure automatic progression to the group stages of the Women’s Champions League rather than having to navigate qualifying.

Everton, meanwhile, remain on course for a third consecutive eighth-placed finish in the WSL.