Chelsea recovered from a first-half deficit to defeat Crystal Palace 3-1 in the Women’s Super League, extending their unbeaten start to the season to seven matches thanks to two goals from Melvine Malard and a late penalty by Sandy Baltimore.
Molly Bartrip Opens the Scoring for Crystal Palace
Chelsea arrived at the 360 Engage Stadium in Sutton dominating possession, only to find themselves stymied by resolute defending and sharp goalkeeping. The Blues dominated from the opening stages, but their failure to convert territorial advantage punished them in the 20th minute.
Molly Bartrip bundled home from close range following Fuka Tsunoda’s delivery from a corner at the far post to break the deadlock.
Baltimore weaves through and puts it on a plate for Malard 🤌✨Chelsea take the lead! 🔵#BarclaysWSL | @ChelseaFCW pic.twitter.com/M58LjahORx
Melvine Malard Scores Twice to Draw Chelsea Level
Trailing at the interval, the manager introduced Erin Cuthbert for Maika Hamano alongside Baltimore at halftime to alter the dynamic of the pitch, leaving Chelsea needing another productive second half after previously scoring five times after the break against Tottenham.
Melvine Malard atoned for missing an open goal by unleashing a powerful right-footed strike from 25 yards out that left Peyraud-Magnin stranded to equalise in the 51st minute.
Sandy Baltimore Secures Victory from the Penalty Spot
Crystal Palace nearly capitalized when former Chelsea striker Bethany England fired over from inside the box with the score tied at 1-1.
The victory follows Chelsea’s 6-2 win over Tottenham last weekend and means Chelsea take top spot in the WSL table on goal difference, climbing to 19 points from seven matches after Manchester City dropped points for the first time this season in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United.
“We’re in a good place.” 💪Lexi reacts to our 3-1 win against Crystal Palace. 💬 pic.twitter.com/4UlXeXCKey
More on Crystal Palace
Match Report: Chelsea come from behind to secure three points away at Crystal Palace. 🗞️#CFCW
Sandy Baltimore scores Chelsea's third from the penalty spot! 🎯#BarclaysWSL | @ChelseaFCW pic.twitter.com/NKcHhs0HqB