Chelsea Women delivered a powerful statement of intent in the Women's Super League title race, demolishing London rivals West Ham United 5-0 at Kingsmeadow. The comprehensive victory, spearheaded by a brace from Sandy Baltimore, breathes new life into the champions' defence and piles immediate pressure on the Hammers' new manager, Rita Guarino.
Nightmare Start for Guarino's Hammers
The match was a brutal introduction to the WSL for Rita Guarino, who took charge at West Ham in December following the dismissal of Rehanne Skinner. Her side's performance was characterised by defensive errors and a palpable lack of confidence, conceding four times before the interval to effectively end the contest by half-time.
West Ham's woes began almost instantly. With less than a minute on the clock, Lauren James released Ellie Carpenter, whose low cross was fumbled by goalkeeper Kinga Szemik and turned into her own net by the unfortunate Yu Endo. The visitors' afternoon deteriorated further on the half-hour when Szemik's clearance rebounded off the pressing James and into the goal.
Chelsea's third came via Alyssa Thompson, who tapped in after good work from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. Sandy Baltimore then capped a dominant first half with a superb finish into the top corner just before the whistle.
Chelsea's Title Intent Clear
For Chelsea, managed by Sonia Bompastor, this was a vital response in their quest to chase down leaders Manchester City. The Blues dominated possession from the outset and punished every West Ham mistake with ruthless efficiency. The result cuts the gap at the top, applying pressure in the WSL title race.
The second half brought little respite for West Ham. A bizarre incident saw new loan signing Estelle Cascarino prevented from making her debut, apparently due to an item of jewellery, forcing Inès Belloumou to hastily return from the dressing room. Chelsea sealed the 5-0 rout when Viviane Asseyi was penalised for handball, allowing Sandy Baltimore to confidently dispatch the resulting penalty for her second of the game.
Long Road Ahead for Struggling Hammers
While defeat at Kingsmeadow was expected for a side battling relegation, the manner of the performance will alarm Guarino. West Ham, who remain locked in a battle with Liverpool at the foot of the table, showed a severe lack of organisation and belief. The Italian coach, highly respected for her past work with Juventus, has a significant task to instil her ideas and lift confidence.
Chelsea, meanwhile, showcased their strength with Lauren James making only her third start of the season and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton returning from injury. This emphatic victory serves as a potent reminder of their championship credentials as the WSL season progresses.
