Chelsea Women claim dramatic win over West Ham
Kerr and Cuthbert on target as Blues come from behind to secure three points
By Michael Emons, BBC Sport at Kingsmeadow, 14 October 2023
Reigning champions Chelsea Women came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over West Ham United Women in a thrilling Women's Super League clash at Kingsmeadow on Saturday.
Sam Kerr opened her account for the season with a stunning strike just before half-time, while Erin Cuthbert grabbed the winner with a close-range finish in the second half.
The result sees Chelsea move top of the table, two points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.
Bright start from West Ham
West Ham made a bright start to the game and took the lead in the 12th minute when Dagny Brynjarsdottir headed home from close range after Chelsea had failed to clear a corner.
The Blues responded well to going behind and equalised just before half-time when Kerr latched onto a pass from Guro Reiten and fired a superb shot into the top corner.
Chelsea take control
Chelsea took control of the game in the second half and deservedly took the lead in the 65th minute when Cuthbert tapped home from close range after Kerr had headed the ball across goal.
The Blues held on to their lead in the closing stages to secure a crucial three points.
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes said:
"It was a great response from the team today. We didn't start well but we showed great character to come back from behind and win the game."
West Ham manager Paul Konchesky said:
"I'm proud of the performance of my players. We made it difficult for Chelsea and we could have got something from the game."
Conclusion
Chelsea's victory over West Ham was a sign of their growing strength and depth. The Blues have now won six of their seven Women's Super League games this season and look like the team to beat.
West Ham, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have lost but can take heart from their performance against one of the best teams in the league.
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