Sam Kerr once again demonstrated why she is a vital member of this Emma Hayes team as Chelsea prevailed in a competitive WSL top-of-the-table match between the Blues and Manchester United.
After losing to United in the Conti Cup final a week prior, Chelsea trailed United by just one point as they pursued them down the standings.
Only 23 minutes had passed when Chelsea seized the lead thanks to Kerr’s third attempt, which ultimately paid off with a shot over Mary Earps that the United goalkeeper was never going to stop.
Manchester United began to regain control of the match halfway through the second half. They created several chances but were unable to get past Chelsea’s defense.
When Martha Thomas came on as a replacement for United in the 70th minute, she had an immediate impact as she attempted to stop the Blues. Nevertheless, Emma Hayes’ answer was to press United even harder, making the game tenser in an effort to shut down the Reds.
Magdalena Eriksson was substituted for Jessie Fleming as the Chelsea manager altered formation, and Melanie Leupolz is already demonstrating why she was awarded a new contract just a few months after giving birth. The midfielder advanced, making room and opening up opportunities while sliding in with tackles as she fought for her team.
The team’s stability is also being demonstrated by Niamh Charles, who was instrumental in halting United’s right-side assault flow. Overall, Chelsea didn’t play their best; the match was scrappy but fierce, with challenges and tackles flying in between duels that made it a match deserving of a cup, but the Blues managed to thwart United’s final-minute opportunities as they pressed for a victory.
Already leading the league by two points, Chelsea will take on Manchester City at the Academy Stadium on Sunday, March 26.