Ellie Carpenter – Chelsea returned from the international break in winning fashion, defeating London City Lionesses 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon to maintain their one-point cushion at the top of the Women’s Super League.
Goals from Ellie Carpenter and Sam Kerr ensured that Sonia Bompastor’s unbeaten league run as Chelsea manager remained intact. The visitors, who have invested heavily in recent windows, looked organised but were soon undone by a familiar Chelsea pattern: a wing-back delivering a perfect ball for another to finish.
Before that breakthrough, Erin Cuthbert came agonisingly close to opening the scoring, her effort dramatically cleared off the line by Wassa Sangare. But it wasn’t long before the breakthrough came — and it was a landmark moment for one of Chelsea’s newest stars.
In the sixth minute, Sandy Baltimore, operating on the left flank, sent in a measured cross that found Ellie Carpenter at the far post. The Australian made no mistake, turning the ball home for her first goal in Chelsea colours and setting the tone for a comfortable, if not spectacular, afternoon.
Missed Chances and Tactical Tweaks
Sjoeke Nüsken should have doubled the lead midway through the first half but headed over from close range. She nearly turned villain minutes later when she lost possession in a dangerous area, gifting Izzy Goodwin a clear sight of goal — only for the Lionesses forward to blaze over.
Bompastor’s decision to experiment with a 3-5-2 formation following the return of Lucy Bronze meant several Chelsea players were adjusting to new roles. Bronze, playing on the right of a back three, found herself more restricted than usual, while Millie Bright and Nathalie Björn took on greater responsibility in central defence.
Chelsea’s tempo dipped at times, their transitions slower and less fluid than usual, but their quality still shone through.
Kerr Seals It Late
In the second half, Chelsea continued to probe, with Cuthbert, Aggie Beever-Jones, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd all going close to adding a second. The game was effectively put to bed in stoppage time, however, when substitute Sam Kerr marked her return from injury in style. The Australian striker latched onto a through ball before lifting a delightful chip over the advancing goalkeeper — a trademark finish from one of the WSL’s greats.
Player Ratings
Hannah Hampton (7/10) – Composed throughout and alert off her line. Dealt confidently with Palace’s few threatening moments.
Lucy Bronze (6/10) – Sacrificed attacking freedom for defensive solidity. Contained Nikita Parris effectively.
Nathalie Björn (8/10) – Outstanding at the back; dominant in the air and calm under pressure.
Millie Bright (6/10) – Still adjusting to the back-three shape but used her physicality well.
Sjoeke Nüsken (5/10) – Mixed afternoon; should have scored and nearly cost a goal.
Sandy Baltimore (6/10) – Provided the assist but lacked defensive discipline at times.
Aggie Beever-Jones (6/10) – Worked hard up front, providing a useful physical outlet.
Guro Reiten (6/10) – Helped stretch play early on but faded before being replaced.
Niamh Charles (6/10) was a substitute who strengthened the defense in the second half. Oriane Jean-François (6/10) – Reliable in possession, if unspectacular.
Rytting Kaneryd (7/10) – Injected energy and width late on.
Sam Kerr (7/10) – Superb finish; reminded everyone of her class.
Wieke Kaptein (N/A) – Late cameo.
Sonia Bompastor (6/10) – Will be satisfied with the result, if not the full performance. Her system still needs refinement, but Chelsea remain winning and top of the league.
