Taking Arsenal on at a time where we seem on the verge of turmoil might be just what Chelsea Women needed. A team that were once written off as tough competitors but rarely ever being able to close the deal on a game and much less a championship, coming to the Bridge off a 2-0 win last time we met at the same place and competition in the beginning of the year.
From kick-off Arsenal showed what their plans were. They wouldn’t really care they were playing away as they took over the offensive reigns
of the game. Thankfully they have been just as bad as the hosts with their aim in front of goal this season.
Counters were our best weapon, and so was the eventual high pressing. Nothing like what we masterfully deployed against Manchester United a few weeks ago that turned into a 5-0 thrashing of the Red Devils at their home turf, but close enough to get us the opener via Alyssa Thompson in the first half.
Arsenal felt that. Deep in their core they believed they’d be the ones with the 1-0 advantage heading into the tunnels and yet that didn’t happen. Here they were the lucky ones as we managed to waste three more good chances at goal that could have turned the match’s fortunes for good, right before half-time.
Having recovered their spirits, Arsenal went back to plan A. They were also getting tired, and their legs weren’t as responsive as a result.
A Chelsea team at a better state, be it physically, technically, mentally or a combination of the three, would have had a field day in this second half. We aren’t there. At least, not yet.
Carefree!
- Keira Walsh and Lexi Potter in central midfield.
- Naked Gun.
- Next up: Olympique Lyon away in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
- KTBFFH!
