Lauren James’ advantageous hat-trick gave Chelsea a 3-1 victory in opposition to Manchester United in an entertaining and closely-fought encounter at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have been enjoying their first WSL match since Sam Kerr’s ACL damage, however the striker’s absence gave the impression to be of little word as James fired dwelling three excellent objectives in opposition to her former facet.
Her first two got here within the opening 23 minutes – the primary (5) a well-worked crew purpose and the second after a advantageous ball excessive from January signing Nathalie Bjorn on her first Chelsea begin (23).
However Man Utd quickly started to work their approach into the sport and pulled a purpose again by means of Hayley Ladd (43) on the finish of the primary half.
That they had their probabilities to equalise too, however have been undone by one other second of James brilliance. She burst by means of on purpose earlier than slotting previous England team-mate Mary Earps for a 3rd time (85), sealing Chelsea’s win.
In consequence, the Blues have restored their three-point lead on the prime of the WSL. Man Utd stay in fourth, 4 factors from the highest three, however might discover themselves slipping additional down the desk relying on the results of Sunday afternoon’s sport between Manchester Metropolis and Liverpool.
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What’s subsequent?
Chelsea’s subsequent sport is at dwelling to Actual Madrid within the Champions League on Wednesday January 24; kick-off 8pm.
The Blues then journey to Brighton within the WSL on Saturday January 27, stay on Sky Sports activities; kick-off 5.30pm.
Manchester United are subsequent in motion at rivals Manchester Metropolis within the League Cup on Wednesday January 24; kick-off 7pm.
Marc Skinner’s facet then host Aston Villa within the WSL on Sunday January 28; kick-off 12pm.