Arsenal breeze past Torres into last four

Arsenal LFC booked their place in the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-finals courtesy of a 1-0 win against ASD Torres CF in Sardinia.

Holding a 3-1 first-leg advantage, the Gunners were in a strong position prior to kick-off and tightened their grip on the tie after just four minutes through Republic of Ireland defender Niamh Fahey. Torres toiled in vain to recover as Shelley Kerr's team set up a last-four encounter with either VfL Wolfsburg or WFC Rossiyanka on 13/14 and 20/21 April.

Arsenal, missing the injured Kelly Smith, none the less began with optimism and intent and were rewarded with an early goal. Rachel Yankey's third corner in quick succession was met at the near post by Ellen White and Fahey added the final touch. Torres rolled up their sleeves and responded well with Giulia Domenichetti's cross narrowly escaping Patrizia Panico, who offered a constant threat to the London side's rearguard.

Domenichetti was thwarted by the offside flag midway through the first half, while the pace of Gemma Davison meant the hosts were always susceptible at the back. Torres had further chances through Domenichetti, Sandy Iannella and Panico in the second period, but Arsenal defended stoutly to see out the game and keep alive their hopes of appearing in the 23 May Stamford Bridge final.