On target: Steph Houghton

Arsenal took another step towards claiming the first ever WSL title after a weekend filled with goals and incident up and down the country.

In London, the Gunners claimed a comfortable win over Doncaster Belles thanks to strikes from Kim Little and England internationals Ellen White and Steph Houghton.

Not to be outdone, current leaders Birmingham also claimed three points, but had a much more nervy afternoon as they entertained Chelsea at Stratford. The prolific Rachel Williams gave Birmingham a first half lead, but the Londoners came roaring back with goals from Helen Lander and Hayley Moorwood.

Facing the prospect of seeing their title dreams evaporate, David Parker’s Birmingham scored two late goals – through Jo Potter and another Williams strike – to take the victory, ensuring that they stay top of the pile for now.

All that means that Arsenal will be champions if they win their two remaining fixtures – against Everton and Liverpool – but any slip up from the Gunners would see Birmingham claim the title if they win their final game at Doncaster.

Further down the league, Everton returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory away at Bristol Academy, while Liverpool and Lincoln – two of the lowest scoring sides in the league – produced a thriller in front of the ESPN cameras at Sincil Bank.

Nicky Twohig’s early header gave the Reds the lead before England veterans Sue Smith and Casey Stoney got their names on the scoresheet for Lincoln. It was a lead which lasted all of two minutes though as Katie Brusell drew bottom side Liverpool level. In the second half, another Smith goal – direct from a corner – and Jess Clarke’s composed finish gave the Lady Imps a 4-2 win.

With Everton guaranteed a top three finish, Lincoln and Chelsea, both currently on 15 points, have the chance to end the campaign in the top half, while Liverpool will finish bottom unless they can take all three points from their home clash with Arsenal on the last day of the season.