Russo opened the scoring early and then headed what proved to be the winner just before half-time, rising highest inside the box to meet Lisa Baum’s delivery and nod past Khiara Keating.

Beata Olsson had earlier levelled the score for struggling Liverpool, netting in the 15th minute, but the Gunners secured a priceless three points.

The result lifts Renee Slegers’ side to sixth in the table, although a 12-point gap remains to champions and league leaders Manchester City.

Hinata Miyazawa hit the bar in a first half United dominated but they had to wait until 17 minutes from time before Zigiotti Olme nodded in the vital goal.

Lexi Lloyd-Smith had given the hosts a 57th-minute lead before the Addicks hit back with two quick goals through Elisha N’Dow and Leah Davidson and looked on course for their first points of the campaign.

But Aimee Everett got the Eagles back on level terms in the 81st minute and England broke the hearts of their south London rivals at the death.

Early goals from Poppy Pattinson and Delphine Cascarino put the Lionesses in control before Oceane Hurtre pulled Birmingham back into the game just after half-time but Grace Geyoro and 127-cap France international Kadidiatou Diani made sure of the points.

Tottenham’s fine form continued as two goals in three minutes from Signe Gaupset and Olivia Holdt earned them a 2-1 victory over Brighton.

Brighton had taken a very early lead through Fran Kirby but Gauspest and Holdt did enough to lift Spurs up to fourth.