OXFORD United Women were narrowly beaten by Arsenal Under 21s at a sun-drenched RAW Charging Stadium.

Former Gunners youngster Lauren Haynes put the U’s ahead in the 29th minute, only for the visitors to hit back almost immediately.

Arsenal scored the winner just before the hour mark to seal victory in the pre-season friendly.

READ MORE: Oxford United Women thrash Tottenham Hotspur youngsters

United were backed by another good turnout, with 254 fans watching them take on one of the giants of English football.

The Arsenal youngsters moved the ball around confidently, but a 13th-minute mistake allowed Sophie Baker to run through on goal.

She took too long to shoot and the chance was gone, before the same player fired just wide soon after.

Baker was involved again when Haynes gave United the lead in the 29th minute. The captain stole possession, played a one-two with her teammate and calmly beat the Arsenal goalkeeper.

The U’s were ahead for less than two minutes, though, as Arsenal equalised with an effort from the edge of the penalty area.

The contest remained competitive, but the north London club went ahead shortly after the break as a low cross into the six-yard box was tapped home at the back post.

Goalkeeper Rose Kite kept the deficit at one, while Baker fired over late on, but there were no more goals as United fell to defeat.

They are back at the RAW Charging Stadium on Sunday, when they host Hashtag United.