Chelsea recover from early setback to defeat West Ham United at Kingsmeadow | OneFootball

Chelsea had to come from behind as they defeated West Ham United 3-1 in their latest Barclays Women’s Super League match at Kingsmeadow this evening.

Dagný Brynjarsdóttir’s early goal gave The Hammers a shock lead but Chelsea fought back and Fran Kirby, Sam Kerr and Millie Bright were all on target as the derby bragging rights were claimed by the side from South West London.

West Ham United got off to a dream start after just three minutes when Brynjarsdóttir was given acres of space in the box and she headed home from a corner kick.

Chelsea were close to immediately levelling matters when Bright got a flick on a corner but visiting keeper Mackenzie Arnold pulled off a great save. The Blues continued to push forward and Kerr saw an effort stump the post before the same player dragged a shot off target. Guro Reiten then fired wide before Kerr again hit the post with an effort from the edge of the box.

The hosts’ luck seemed to be out until they finally found the back of the net five minutes before the break. Reiten chipped a ball across the box and Kirby expertly lifted her shot into the corner of the West Ham United goal.

Chelsea took the lead for the first time 13 minutes into the second half. Following a sequence of pinball in the box, the ball fell kindly for Kerr who swept it home from just a few yards.

Two goals quickly turned to three for Emma Hayes’ side. A corner came in from the left and Bright headed in, finding the far corner of the net.

Lauren James then saw an effort whistle over the bar before the same player was fouled by Lucy Parker and won her side a penalty kick. James stepped up to take the spot kick but she failed to take advantage with Arnold making the save.

Chelsea pressed forward throughout the remainder of the match but were unable to add further goals to their tally. Tonight’s result sees The Blues move level with three other clubs at the top of the Barclays Women’s Super League table, although they have now played a game more.