Chelsea extended their lead at the top of the Barclays Women’s Super League table with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Kingsmeadow this afternoon.
Guro Reiten’s first half penalty was enough to seal the win for The Blues as they went five points clear at the league summit.
Going into the game, both sides boasted unbeaten records in the Barclays Women’s Super League so far this season. Chelsea were the top scorers while Manchester United conceded the fewest goals.
In the early stages, Chelsea were presented with a promising chance but Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s effort hit teammate Mayra Ramírez.
In the 17th minute, Ramírez was brought down by visiting keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce and the hosts were given a penalty. Reiten converted from the penalty spot to give The Blues the lead.
Chelsea controlled most of the first half but Manchester United slowly grew into the game. The Red Devils put Chelsea under much pressure in the final third towards the end of the first period, but they were unable to find an equaliser.
Marc Skinner’s side came close to finding an leveller early in the second half. Geyse tried her luck from distance, but her shot took a big deflection off Sjoeke Nüsken before Hannah Hampton turned the ball behind for a corner kick.
On the hour mark, Tullis-Joyce kept out Ramírez’s effort from a tight angle to prevent the hosts from doubling their advantage. Following a free-kick, the Manchester United keeper again prevented the Colombian international from scoring as she gathered the ball. With four minutes to go, Ramírez met a Rytting Kaneryd cross and registered another shot on goal but she still failed to beat Tullis-Joyce.
In the last minute of normal time, Manchester United went close to equalising through second half substitute Melvine Malard, but her shot rebounded off the crossbar as the contest ended 1-0 in Chelsea’s favour.
Both sides return to Barclays Women’s Super League action after the international break. Chelsea play host to Brighton & Hove Albion while Manchester United welcome Liverpool to the Leigh Sports Village.
