The Scotland forward, who has bagged two goals in the Blues’ opening two games, broke the deadlock against Pedro Martinez Losa’s side, with further goals from Steph Houghton, Georgia Stanway, Jill Scott and an impressive triumph over their title rivals.
With four different goalscorers in the opening day victory at Yeovil and five against the Gunners, the 1,646 in attendance at the Academy Stadium and those watching on television were treated to a showcase of the league champions’ attacking prowess and a statement of their title credentials.
Having netted nine goals in 180 minutes, had challenged his side to excite their home fans with attractive football before the game, witnessed his wish granted in style – and Ross believes competition for places is earning top performances.
“We’ve got a great depth to the squad, which will be a fantastic thing for us throughout the season,” she told ManCity.com.
“We obviously want to compete for all trophies.
“There’s creativity all over the pitch. It was quite a dominant performance and for us to have had five different goalscorers is great for the team.
“There are threats everywhere. We’ve got different ways of scoring this year and it’s great that everyone’s chipping in.
“Personally, I’ve got two in two. I’m always striving for more but obviously, I’m happy to have got on the scoresheet again.”
Despite surrendering their lead twice – a minute before half-time and two minutes after – the Blues’ responded excellently and secured a three-goal cushion in a rampant ten-minute spell, becoming the first team to net five past Arsenal since 2008.
Ross is proud of the way her team reacted to their setbacks by trusting in their philosophy.
“We have the attitude that – if we stick to our gameplan and continue to possess the ball – we will create chances,” she continued.
“We probably should have been more clinical in the first half and gone into the break with more than a one-goal lead but we came out in the second half and took the chances we had.”
City have little time to reflect on their triumph with their second Champions League adventure kicking-off in midweek.
Cushing’s side face Austrian outfit St Polten over two legs in the Round of 32 – away first on Wednesday 4 October (8:15 CET) and at home on Thursday 12 October (7pm).
Ross insists her side are not reading too much into their perfect start to the 2017/18 campaign.
“We just have to take one game at a time,” she warned. “It’s a long season and this is only the beginning.
“We’re feeling fresh and looking forward to getting the Champions League started next week.
“The games are coming thick and fast now but we’re looking forward to each one as it comes.
“Until now, our focus has been on Arsenal. In the week ahead, Nick will have us well-informed on St Polten and the threats they possess.”
Tickets for the home leg are on sale at tickets.mancity.com.
