Chelsea Women 3-1 Manchester United Women
Chelsea Women passed their first tough test after the league winter break with flying colours, beating Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday in front of 20,473 spectators, and a world TV audience of millions.
It was an authoritative, assured display by the Blues, who seem to have adjusted well to life without the long-term injured Sam Kerr.
Award-laden United keeper Mary Earps faced one of her England deputies Hannah Hampton at the other end, with Hampton the happier about her performance on only her second league start for Chelsea.
A hat-trick from Lauren James, with the second goal owing much to a glorious diagonal upfield assist from newbie defender Nat Bjorn, ensured three points for the Blues, who remain top of the table.
United's Hayley Ladd gave the Reds a consolation against the run of play.
After the midweek European clash against Real Madrid at the Bridge, it's back to the nitty-gritty of WSL action this weekend for Emma Hayes' team as they travel to Brighton.
Hayes feels that her legacy at Chelsea, once she leaves in four months to coach the USA women's team, will be a crop of young stars to build on her foundations.
Of hat-trick star James she said: "There's a lot of complexity with Lauren, but she's a genius!"
It's true she's a complex character; shy and hesitant in front of a microphone, but ferociously focused in front of a goal.
Sporting an Afro hairstyle, held in check by a sturdy headband, James admitted she enjoyed the buzz of playing in the big stadium. "With the fans behind us at Stamford Bridge, we love playing here," she said. "And I just love scoring."
Niamh Charles, back from suspension, was made captain against United, to celebrate her signing a contract extension until 2027.
Erin Cuthbert had an excellent game, as did Bjorn, who has settled instantly into the Blues' back line and will challenge Millie Bright for her place once the Chelsea stalwart is back from injury.
Jo Kaneryd is also looking sharp as we move into the second half of the season, and with young striker Aggie Beever-Jones getting more match time, it's all looking rosy for the team.
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and unless specifically stated are not necessarily those of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
