Clinical Kerr puts Chelsea on course for fourth successive title

Blues hotshot Sam Kerr once again proved to be the difference maker for Chelsea as the reigning champions took a huge three points in the title race with a 1-0 win over Manchester United at Kingsmeadow.

In a game of few chances a superb goal from Australian Kerr in the 22nd minute sealed the win for Chelsea to move them two points clear at the top of the WSL.

Key midfielder Erin Cuthbert was a surprise ommision for the home side with Chelsea boss Hayes later confirming she was ruled out with a tight hamstring

It was the away side who were called into action earliest when good strength from Kerr saw her shrug off Ona Batlle, however, Mary Earps was equal to the drive. The Lionesses’ number one did even better just moments later when Kerr broke free once again only to see Earps make a fantastic save with her foot.

United wouldn’t be as fortunate though on the 23rd minute though when a delicious ball from former Red Devil Lauren James put Kerr through on goal and this time the Australian finished with aplomb. Ella Toone would almost respond instantly for United as they broke into the Chelsea half immediately from kick off but her shot would fly narrowly wide of Ann-Katrin Berger’s goal.

There was a huge call for a Man Utd penalty shortly after and replays showed there was reason to be after it appeared Parris was clipped as she broke free in the area.

Millie Turner would go close just before the half time break when she got on the end of Katie Zelem but the defender will have been disappointed not to get a better connection as United search for an equaliser. Alessia Russo would then go close when she connected to a low cross from Parris though the England striker couldn’t get enough power in the connection to trouble the Chelsea goal.

United came flying out of the traps in the early stages of the second period with Russo blasted a shot at goal after finding space in the area, however, it was Chelsea and Kerr who went closest to scoring as the Australian goalgetter side footed narrowly wide of Earps’ goal.

However, it was Marc Skinner’s side who began asking the questions as the half wore on with Russo and Parris both causing problems down the Blues right hand side. A series of second balls being won almost saw Leah Galton through on goal but Kadeisha Buchanan managed to do just enough to nulify it.

However Hayes side would keep United at bay and hold on to take a vital three points in the title race.