Lauren James doing Lauren James things
This match was all about one player, Lauren James. Some say she is Reece James’ sister, but it is about time we remove that tag in order to give her the true respect she deserves. The Chelsea men’s right wing back spoke about how he thinks his sister is technically better than a lot of the Premier League players today, and Sunday afternoon at Brisbane Road was the perfect example of why. The former Manchester United winger makes the game look effortless, almost boring at times with how relaxed she looks with the ball at her feet.
In the 27′ right after Bethany England equalized on the other end, James received a pass from Sophie Ingle, and drove straight into the teeth of the Spurs’ defense. She made light work of Kerys Harrop on the wing, and knifed by several white shirts before finding a hole at the top of the box where she finished off what has to be considered one of the Blues’ goals of the season with her left foot.
Pure brilliance from James:
Special.#CFCW pic.twitter.com/keU0fmf7PP
— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) February 5, 2023
Tottenham’s defensive problems continued, giving James far too much space, almost looking tentative to pressure her at the top of the box. James’ magical foot skills were on display once again as Chelsea Women pulled back the momentum that Spurs had gained from capitalizing on a Blues’ mistake in the backline. Her celebration with Sam Kerr following the move and the finish told the entire story. That was truly something special.
James finished the match with four dribbles completed, the most of anyone on the pitch, and nine duels win which was also a game-high. There is honestly nothing James cannot do with the ball at her feet. Nothing comes as a surprise anymore when it comes to James as she continues to cement herself as one of the most talented wingers in all of the women’s football.