The Irons had not only had the lead, but they were defending it well.
Their back line marshalled Arsenal's attempts to go forward excellently – especially given many of the Gunners' long balls produced nothing of note – and Kinga Szemik was regularly in the right place to bail out the Irons when tested.
Chloe Kelly, making her first start, netted her first goal for Arsenal and made it 2-1 before the break.
But after Stina Blackstenius had a one disallowed and Shekiera Martinez restored West Ham's two-goal cushion it felt like there was only one likely conclusion; West Ham seemed destined to win it.
In an instant, though, that all changed.
The fact that Szemik got a hand to Mariona Caldentey's penalty – the goal which put Arsenal in front – was symbolic of the game slipping out West Ham's reach.
Having turned the tide in such a rapid fashion, Arsenal were energised and seemed a completely different side. Substitutes made an impact, too, with Kyra Cooney-Cross playing a significant role in improving their attacking intent.
This was a big win for Arsenal given Chelsea dropped points. The manner of defeat will be crushing for West Ham, but it was a great display nevertheless.
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