Newly promoted LFC women showed resilience as they came back from 1-0 down in the first half of the game to sensationally beat the reigning Women Super League champions Chelsea 2-1, courtesy of Katie Stengel double at Penton Park.
Chelsea took the lead inside three minutes after Gilly Flaherty fouled Guro Reiten inside the box. This saw Fransesca Kirby step up to convert from the spot as LFC goalkeeper Rachael Laws watched the ball anguishly go past her. Chelsea came close to doubling their lead inside 20 minutes but Kerr was denied by the goalkeeper, she was later flagged offside.
Although they enjoyed large share of possession, Chelsea were not able to score another goal as their attack left a number of chances begging before being punished by Stengel in the 67th minute from the penalty spot. The penalty was conceded after second half substitute Megan Campbell’s long throw was handled inside the 18 yard box. Stengel doubled the lead in 87th minute, this time again from the penalty spot.
‘They play 5-4-1 and don’t come out, they have maximized their opportunities.’ Chelsea’s manager Emma Hayes told Sky. ‘We couldn’t hit a barn door today’, she continued. They did their game plan well. We knew about the long throw from Campbell we should have defended the second penalty better. We chalk it off and go again. I say it all the time, what is to worry about loosing a football match.’
LFC women head coach sentiments
On the contrary, LFC women head coach was full of praise of his team and was pleased with the second period substitution impact. ‘I felt over the course of the game we deserved it especially after our tactical changes after half time. Over the pre-season we have tested ourselves against good WSL teams, we knew we could hurt them on counter attack.’ Matt Beard told Liverpoolfc.com
This was the first match Chelsea have lost leading 1-0 at half time since 2013. The last team to beat them? It was Liverpool, that’s 9year ago. Katie Stengel was named man of the match after bagging that double.
In the world of women’s football, the clash between Liverpool’s newly promoted women’s team and the reigning WSL champions, Chelsea, will be remembered as a historic showdown. LFC Women’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory showcased their resilience, determination, and tactical prowess
Katie Stengel emerged as the undisputed star of the match, securing her place in the spotlight with a sensational double, including two crucial penalty conversions. Her performance was nothing short of heroic, and her recognition as Man of the Match was well-deserved.
For Chelsea, this loss marked a rare occurrence, as they hadn’t suffered defeat when leading 1-0 at halftime since 2013. The fact that Liverpool was the last team to achieve this feat nearly a decade ago adds an extra layer of significance to their triumph.
Both managers, Emma Hayes for Chelsea and Matt Beard for LFC Women, offered their insights on the game. While Hayes acknowledged Liverpool’s effective game plan and defensive resilience, Beard praised his team’s strategic adjustments and their ability to capitalize on counterattacks.
In the world of sports, moments like these remind us of the beauty of competition, the unpredictability of outcomes, and the unwavering spirit of athletes. As Liverpool’s newly promoted women’s team celebrates this remarkable victory over the reigning champions, the footballing world eagerly anticipates more thrilling encounters in the seasons to come.
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