Frustrated West Ham Womens’ team head coach Matt Beard was left bitterly didappointed by the game that got away at Arsenal as the Irons opened their campaign.

Two first half goals put Arsenal in full control , despite the Irons creating chances, but Martha Thomas’ headed effort on 58 minutes gave the Hammers optimism in the second period.

The striker went close again while Kenza Dali hit the post twice in the closing moments. Adriana Leon also struck the woodwork on an afternoon where, according to Beard, West Ham should have taken at least a draw.

“I’m really pleased with the performance,” Beard said. “In the first half we showed them too much respect and we were too deep. We were worried about movements that weren’t really causing us problems.

“We created some good chances today in both the first and second half. We are bitterly disappointed we’ve not walked away with at least a point.

“It’s a real positive performance and we’ve got seven new signings in the group from the summer. From my perspective, we’ve got to believe in our own ability and convert the chances we are creating. This isn’t a bad start, but we deserved at least a point.”