By Chelsea Women have again lifted the FA Cup after a 3-2 win over Manchester City in the finals played at Wembley on Sunday.
Sam Kerr once again saved the day for the Blues after netting two stunning goals to help steer Chelsea to another victory, adding to their Women’s Super League title from last weekend.
The brilliant striker opened the scoring against the run of play in the 33rd minute, nodding home from Millie Bright’s right-wing cross. The defender’s delivery looked goal-bound, but Kerr was there to help it on its way.
City came from behind twice to force extra-time, the first from a superb Lauren Hemp goal. The winger beat Bright on the left of the area before curling a superb effort into the far corner.
What followed was another stunner, this time from Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert, that saw the Blues back ahead. Her effort from range pinged off the underside of the crossbar before beating Ellie Roebuck.
Chelsea were mere minutes from defending their trophy but Hayley Raso fired City level once again. It was a lovely pass over the top from Alex Greenwood that found her, with Raso outmuscling Magdalena Eriksson before firing past Ann-Katrin Berger.
It was another dramatic twist in the showpiece finale worthy of the record breaking crowd. But Kerr was the match winner in the 99th minute, driving into the area from midfield before her shot deflected off Greenwood and into the net.
Chelsea won despite being second best for much of the match, as City dominated possession and shots – registering 23 to Chelsea’s nine — but found themselves thwarted by an inspired Berger, particularly in the second half.
Sunday’s defeat is also the first time Man City have lost an FA Cup final, winning on their first three appearances.
The result was also a touch of revenge for Chelsea, who lost 3-1 to City in the League Cup final in March. They add a second trophy to their cabinet this season and successfully defended their title from the 2020/21 season.
Culled from Sky Sports.
