Ellie Carpenter Impresses on Debut in Chelsea’s Season Opener
As the Women’s Super League returned, the central question remained: Can anyone challenge Chelsea’s dominance?
While it is early in the season, Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea secured a victory against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge, demonstrating their resilience despite not being at their peak.
Both teams featured new players and tactical adjustments, but the outcome remained consistent: another win for the reigning champions.
Former Chelsea defender Gilly Flaherty commented on BBC Radio 5 Live, “Neither team is at their desired level yet. City could have created more chances with better decisions in attack.”
Flaherty added, “Chelsea didn’t appear invincible, but they showed their ability to create opportunities. Both teams are likely to evolve significantly in the coming weeks.”
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Chelsea completed an undefeated domestic season last year, securing a trophy treble.
Similar sentiments were echoed last season, suggesting vulnerabilities within the Chelsea squad that could be exploited.
However, no team managed to capitalize, as Chelsea remained unbeaten in their WSL, FA Cup, and League Cup campaigns.
In Friday’s opening game, Chelsea initially focused on neutralizing Manchester City’s movement and adapting to Andree Jeglertz’s new setup.
The match was preceded by the introduction of Chelsea’s high-profile signing, Alyssa Thompson, who walked onto the pitch to acclaim.
Sam Kerr, the Australian forward, also made her return to the squad after a 20-month recovery from an ACL injury.
Additionally, Kerr’s compatriot, Ellie Carpenter, a promising full-back from Lyon, made her debut.
After analyzing City’s strategy, Chelsea established their rhythm and took control of the game.
Chelsea recognized that Carpenter’s pace posed a challenge to City captain Alex Greenwood and exploited this advantage. Carpenter’s cross led to Aggie Beever-Jones’ opening goal.
In the second half, Chelsea extended their lead, capitalizing on their attacking prowess after City failed to convert their own opportunities.
Niamh Charles’ own goal from a Greenwood set-piece was the only blemish on Chelsea’s performance, despite City’s persistent pressure. The absence of Sam Kerr on the pitch was the only disappointment for Chelsea fans.
Chelsea secured three points against a title contender, with Carpenter delivering a standout performance.
Manager Bompastor stated, “I am pleased with both the result and the performance. We maintained control in the first half and created the most dangerous opportunities.”
She added, “We effectively contained several key City players. This is a strong start to the season, but it is just the beginning.”
“Psychologically, defeating a major opponent is crucial, especially one competing for the league title.”
“However, I am not overstating the significance of these three points. There are still 21 games remaining.”
Ellie Carpenter previously worked with Sonia Bompastor for three years at Lyon.
Carpenter’s familiarity with Bompastor from their time at Lyon facilitated her seamless transition to Chelsea.
With Lucy Bronze still recovering from injury, Carpenter seized the opportunity to make an immediate impact.
Her performance was both immediate and impressive.
Carpenter consistently challenged Greenwood and created numerous opportunities with her direct style and dangerous crosses.
Bompastor praised Carpenter, saying, “Ellie’s performance was exceptional. Knowing her well, I was not surprised by her debut in the league.”
“She is a remarkable player who had an immediate impact on the performance and the result.”
“Her qualities are a valuable addition to our squad. We are proud to have her at Chelsea.”
While Chelsea’s victory felt familiar, Manchester City displayed notable changes.
Jeglertz implemented his style, encouraging greater dynamism within the team.
Greenwood played as a left-back, a departure from her usual centre-back role, while Lauren Hemp switched to the right wing.
Midfielders Yui Hasegawa and Sydney Lohmann rotated positions, and the team adopted a different approach when pressing Chelsea’s defense.
What aspects were successful, and which were not?
Jeglertz explained, “It is crucial for players to be dynamic and adaptable, playing in various positions rather than being confined to one area.”
“[Hemp’s switch] provides more attacking options and combinations, moving beyond simple crosses.”
“I value versatile players like Hemp, who can combine effectively with others. This versatility opens up new opportunities.”
“We invested significant energy in the high press, particularly in the second half. Chelsea’s initial formation surprised us.”
“Ultimately, the game revolves around scoring goals, and we conceded two. Despite creating enough chances to earn at least a point, we fell short.”
Ben Haines, Ellen White, and Jen Beattie return for another season of the Women’s Football Weekly podcast. Tune in every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, and explore additional interviews and content from the Women’s Super League on the Women’s Football Weekly feed
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