Man Utd vs Chelsea: Chelsea women secure the WSL title on Manchester United’s home soil yet again
The Wednesday night fixture against Manchester United finished 1-0 to Chelsea, confirming their spot as Women’s Super League champions for the sixth consecutive season.
It is an impressive achievement, with a notable eight titles in the last decade.
Lucy Bronze’s 74th-minute header ensured the Blues continued their unbeaten streak this campaign and helped Sonia Bompastors side clinch the title with two games to spare.
In this article, Sports News Blitz writer Claudia Jones helps us relive the moments that defined the WSL clash.
First half
In the opening 15 minutes, Manchester United put the pressure on, hoping to keep the game in Chelsea's half.
The Reds came close on multiple occasions, creating goal-scoring opportunities.
In the 17th minute, Melvine Malard had a shot saved by Hannah Hampton, with the rebound landing at Grace Clinton’s feet.
However, Naomi Girma made a crucial block to prevent her from finding the back of the net.
After an error from Rytting Kaneryd, Hampton had more work to do with a 38th-minute vital double save to stop both Malard and Clinton from scoring.
Despite these chances, the Reds were unable to convert.
Chelsea also had first-half chances, with an early strike from Myayra Ramirez, however, she was denied by Phallon Tullis-Joyce.
Millie Bright also had a low strike from distance however this was no trouble for the Reds keeper.
The first half ended in controversy, with shouts for a United penalty when Clinton went down after a questionable challenge from Bright.
However, referee Abigail Byrne made the decision to play on - much to the frustration of the home crowd.
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Second half
Marc Skinner's side started well after the break, with a chance from Malard but she is denied by Hampton again.
United had another chance with a cross from Gabby George, who found Bizet, but it was once again stopped by the Chelsea keeper.
In the 55th minute, Chelsea had a chance to break the deadlock, with three attempts from Beaver-Jones, Kaneryd and Cuthbert.
However, Tullis-Joyce pulled off a crucial triple save just to keep the Blues out.
About 20 minutes later, a well-delivered corner from Sandy Baltimore led to a bullet header from, Bronze securing the Blues with the lead.
This was Bronze’s second goal this campaign.
Despite United dominating the game, Hampton and Bronze secured the win for Chelsea.
The goalkeeper played a crucial role in maintaining Chelsea's defensive solidity throughout the match, earning herself the Player of the Match award.
Extended records
Manchester United did not fail to create chances, with 16 shots compared to Chelsea’s 11.
The Reds arguably deserved more from this game, given the intensity and quality they showed throughout.
Chelsea are still the only team the Red Devils have been unable to beat in the Women’s Super League.
This game also marked the second season in a row Chelsea have won the title on Manchester United’s home ground.
Bronze’s goal was the tenth WSL goal United’s defence have conceded this season, as they continue to hold the best defensive record in the league this WSL season.
Still so much to play for
The season is not over yet. Manchester United still have UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification to play for.
The FA Cup final is also still to be played, with both United and Chelsea meeting again on May 18 at Wembley - a chance for Chelsea to secure the domestic treble.
This has been an incredible debut season for Bompastor, continuing the successes Chelsea have achieved in previous years.
Bompastor commented on her achievement, stating "I feel great. For my first season it feels amazing.
“I want to thank my players; I want to thank the club to have me on board. For us to achieve that with two games left is a great achievement."
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