Barclays Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea ran out 3-1 winners over Arsenal in front of 32,970 at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea took control of the game, scoring three times in little over half an hour with a Lauren James’ opener added to by Sjoeke Nüsken’s brace.
James shot was parried by Manuela Zinsberger but the ball spun over the line, Nüsken then guided in Erin Cuthbert’s low drive and got her second as a strike from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd deflected in via the back of her leg.
Arsenal pulled a goal back with four minutes left of the ninety, Kim Little’s shot from the edge of the box forcing an own-goal by Catarina Macario.
Ashley Lawrence was denied a goal in stoppage time, as Zinsberger again made the block with her outstretched leg.
The result sees Emma Hayes’ side open up a three-point lead over Manchester City from a game more, while now sitting six points ahead of the Gunners. advantage on Arsenal.
