Riding the wave: Chelsea v Brighton preview

Both clubs at the moment seem to be going in opposite directions this season, but if past seasons told the Blues anything, it is that the Seagulls are a team that should be taken seriously. Last season, CFC played Brighton to a 0-0 draw away from home, pitching a shutout against the high-powered Blues attack that collected 26 shots through 90 minutes. The Seagulls have played Chelsea to two draws, and a game where Brighton ended up on the winning side, defeating the Blues 2-1 at Kingsmeadow through a goal by Megan Connolly in the final 15 minutes. Given the way Brighton lost to Manchester United and Arsenal, it is currently looking like Brighton is going to struggle more than it has in years past.

There is still plenty of time in the season for the Seagulls to find their stride and make a move up the table. They are currently tied on points with Liverpool and Manchester City. There was no mid-week fixture for Brighton, so it had an entire week to rest and prepare for the Blues’ trip down south. The outing in Paris was a massive high for Chelsea, but what makes this team special is its ability to compete in every competition.

The foot has to be on the gas pedal until the international break in the middle of November. Resting players could come into play with another Champions League contest on tap at Kingsmeadow on Wednesday, but the Blues must not look too far forward because Brighton has been one of those teams that give contenders in the league a run for their money when they least expect it. The entire away section at Broadfield Stadium is sold out, and behind those passionate fans, CFC should see themselves through with three points, heading back to Kingsmeadow for the first time since September with even more confidence as the challenges get steeper.