A heads-up. Chelsea Women may be starting to click, but it’s now more congested at the top of the table than at any time in Women’s Super League history.
In the space of four days, the Blues defeated Arsenal (Conti Cup) and Man City (league) at Kingsmeadow, suggesting Chelsea’s new signings are integrating well.
Yet Everton and Manchester United are challenging the ‘big three’, and it’s by no means certain that Chelsea, City and Arsenal will occupy the top three slots come May.
Sunday’s 3-1 victory over City was impressive. While Pernille Harder may still be adjusting to the physicality of the WSL, Sam Kerr deserved a goal for her hard work, and Mel Leupolz dominated midfield like a seasoned pro.
Mel is a magnificent header of the ball, rivalling even Millie Bright for distance and accuracy. Unlike some players, she doesn’t scrunch up her eyes and hope to connect as a ball descends... she watches, aims and directs headers.
Hayes agrees. “I can’t believe the distance Melanie gets; her physical stats must be off the charts and with Erin Cuthbert and Ji So-Yun, that midfield was unreal today.
“English football got to see why we signed Mellie, and the talent she possesses... unbelievable!”
Hayes revealed that Leupolz is also a good motorbike rider and “without wanting to sound clichéd, she brings a winning German mentality”.
But there’s real steel there too. “Winning is what she does; she’s a competitor,” added the manager. “But don’t be fooled by the nice smile; she’ll take your legs if you’re not looking! Be careful!”
Having played three games in a week, Chelsea now have three weeks without a game. A positive test among Aston Villa Women means next weekend’s game is off and the Blues haven’t a competitive tie until early November.
“The important thing is that we have the players in the safest possible environment, and if the decision is to postpone it, then we must respect that,” said Hayes, who is frustrated by the gap, but pleased to have a run of continuous training to work on tactics.
And perhaps Mel Leupolz can lead the header training.
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and unless specifically stated are not necessarily those of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
Want to read more news stories like this? Subscribe to our weekly e-news bulletin.
