It was a disappointing outing for Chelsea women on Sunday as they lost to Manchester City. They are now a point behind both Manchester clubs. The positive is that they still have a game in hand. Arsenal is only two points behind the defending champions having played the same number of games.
The emergence of Manchester United as a genuine title contender means Women’s Super League is now more competitive than ever. The blues will need a near-perfect run to the end to defend their title successfully. It is something Emma Hayes’s side is capable of. The three titles in the past three years were all won similarly.
One of the key differences from the past three seasons is how the team dropped points. Previously they always made sure fellow title contenders never gain points while playing each other. But the loss to Manchester City was a change in that trend.
The performance at Manchester City academy stadium should act as an eye-opener for this team. Gareth Taylor’s side dominated the blues from minute one. It was very similar to how Arsenal defeated Chelsea. After the early opener, the Gunners were on top till the final minute.
Injuries affected the team. The absence of both Pernille Harder and Fran Kirby has affected the team massively. Sam Kerr has been playing a lot without much rest. Any injury to her will have serious implications.
Some of the blame is on Emma Hayes and the coaching staff. They kept Kerr on the pitch even after Chelsea had a decent lead in many matches. Having spent too much time on the bench in a world cup year, England had to move for her career.
Another serious issue facing CFC is the silly mistakes that are happening in the defense. Kadeisha Buchanan is yet to show the class that she displayed for Lyon. Captain Magda Eriksen too is not free of mistakes these days.
The only proper left back, Alsu Abdullina, is rarely featured despite impressing every time. They also failed to integrate Aniek Nouwen properly and now she is spending time at AC Milan on loan. Millie Bright’s injury has only made it worse for the blues.
In Hayes, the English champions have the best person to guide the team. They still are in three big competitions. Thursday night’s second leg fixture against Lyon at Stamford Bridge was the perfect opportunity to show the world the Blues are not slowing down any soon as they recorded one of the most emphatic wins in the club’s history