WSL: James celebrates freedom as Chelsea defeats Arsenal women

With her game-changing effort, Lauren James gave freedom credit for helping Chelsea upset title rivals Arsenal and extend their lead atop the Women’s Super League.

After evading her marker, the 22-year-old wonder shot through Manuela Zinsberger’s hands to give the hosts the lead.

Chelsea’s lead was increased six minutes later when Sjoeke Nusken headed a long-range effort from Erin Cuthbert into the bottom corner.

After the break, Zinsberger was taken by surprise when Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s shot bounced off her calf, giving Nusken a very good chance to win.

Kim Little’s deflection of Chelsea striker Catarina Macario was the only late consolation the Gunners were able to obtain.

James discussed how her excitement of playing at Stamford Bridge gives her the courage to perform after the match.

“It’s always nice to play here, and I feel the freedom here with the fans,” she said to Sky Sports. We clearly gained momentum as a result of that, and today proved it.

“Everyone lets me be free, and those in my rearview mirror make sure I’m carrying out my duties responsibly. They advise me to “do what you want in possession” if I am.

“I just try my best and take advantage of the opportunity without really thinking about it.”

The result badly hurts Arsenal’s prospects of winning the championship because they are now six points behind Chelsea, who are currently three points clear of Manchester City in second place.

Following a resounding victory in West London, Emma Hayes, the manager of the Blues, was eager to give her squad credit.

“I said that I expect a Chelsea standard and I saw that tonight in the performance,” the woman said to BBC Sport. I thought everyone who contributed to getting what we needed did an amazing job.

“We had to play Lauren James as a center-forward today due to our depletion, and she did a fantastic job, but this is about the entire team, and it’s an amazing effort from everyone.”