Chelsea 3-1 West Ham: another victory at Kingsmeadow
By Vishnu Raj
Chelsea Women recorded their second consecutive win as they overcame London rivals West Ham United. Wednesday night’s result means the blues are currently in a four-way tie at the top of the table with six points. Among them, only Chelsea has played three matches.
Emma Hayes’s side has undoubtedly put the shock defeat to Liverpool in the first match of the season on their back. In a league where champions are determined by the slightest of margins, the loss at Merseyside may come back to sting them. But the three times defending champions will have plenty of chances to take the lead in the league. The Women’s Super League now takes a short break for the international fixtures.
Chelsea is yet to achieve their potential. It is understandable considering the player movements team has undergone during the summer. Only Kadeisha Buchanan has started all three matches among the recent arrivals. The other signings haven’t received enough game time to gel with the team.
Wednesday’s match saw WSL’s top scorer of the last two seasons, Sam Kerr getting off the mark for the season. She had already hit both sides of the post in the first half. It was, however, Fran Kirby who scored the equalizing goal. It was her third goal of the season so far.
Among others, the standout player for Chelsea so far this season has been Lauren James. Despite the poor penalty kick she took against the Hammers, she has looked effortless with her performance. Injuries and the brilliant form of others ahead of the pecking order made it hard for her last season. But this season, the young Englishwomen has been able to showcase why she is regarded highly by everyone.
The Blues will have a tricky test upon their return as they visit Everton. Before long, the women’s champions league campaign will commence. Hayes will be determined to go all the way in Europe this season. They cannot afford even slight slipups like last season.
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The upcoming break will help Hayes access the squad she has in her hand. She will want to integrate the new players as soon as possible. Central midfield is one of those crucial areas. With Hayes at the helm, fans can always look forward positively.