For a good while one of the best things Chelsea Women were able to do was regularly beating Arsenal, both at home and away. That started to change over the last years when we went to their turf. But at least we could still claim Kingsmeadow and Stamford Bridge as our own “fortresses” against their attempts at knocking out our doors.
Given our status of chasing after Manchester City in the league race, we couldn’t afford another slip. This Arsenal side, even though they’re far from their best, knew it. They played to our emotions and got what they wanted in the second half, with Bethany Mead opening the score for them.
They could very well do it like we did against Manchester City earlier this week and park the bus to protect a one-goal lead. However they sniffed blood and went for a second, with Mead assisting Mariona Caldentey a few minutes after her goal.
Sonia Bompastor continued making adjustments on the pitch, using all her subs and changing our defensive shape. But this Chelsea team, who often look slower and weaker in battles against teams of the same level, especially in midfield despite Erin Cuthbert’s best efforts, couldn’t pull it through.
Only a miracle will give Chelsea a chance to fight for a Women’s Super League title after this. And you wonder whether we’d need a miracle or two to even lift silverware if we meet a semi-competent team in a cup final.
* Three at the back.
* This bad aim in front of goal is bound to bite in the back.
* …and it did.
* Next up: Manchester City away in the Women’s Super League.
* KTBFFH.
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