The WSL title race was turned on its head on Saturday as Manchester City capitalized on Chelsea’s slip-up to move two points clear at the summit, with Khadija Shaw’s hat-trick inspiring a 5-0 rout of West Ham while Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton.
Shaw's Scoring Spree
Shaw, who has now scored 12 goals in nine league appearances this season, was the architect of City’s emphatic victory at Joie Stadium. Her treble, combined with strikes from Aoba Fujino and Iman Beney, trimmed the goal-difference gap that Chelsea had built up and sent a clear message to the reigning champions. The Jamaican international’s tally accounts for 44% of City’s WSL goals this term, and she is now just two goals away from equalling Vivianne Miedema’s all-time WSL record of 97.
Despite her heroics, Shaw remained measured in her post-match comments to Sky Sports, stressing that there is still a long way to go. She highlighted the importance of focusing on the next game and not getting complacent, with a Champions League fixture midweek before the top-of-the-table clash.
Chelsea's Frustration at Stamford Bridge
While City were rampant, Chelsea were left ruing missed chances at Stamford Bridge. Sonia Bompastor’s side dominated Everton, registering 20 shots and an expected goals total of 2.14, but they could not find a way past a resilient Toffees defense. Everton, ranked eighth, did not manage a single shot on target and had just three touches in the Chelsea box, yet they left with a point thanks to Lucy Bronze’s unfortunate own goal.
Chelsea captain Erin Cuthbert admitted her team were not at their best, telling BBC Sport that it was “one of those days” and that they cannot afford too many more if they are to stay in the title race. The Blues were also without playmaker Lauren James, who is set for at least five games on the sidelines with a hamstring injury sustained in last weekend’s 6-0 win over Charlton.
Hemp and Shaw: A Lethal Partnership
City’s attacking prowess was on full display against West Ham, with Lauren Hemp and Shaw combining for the opening goal—the fifth time they have linked up in the WSL this season. Hemp, who, like Shaw, was omitted from the 26-player Fifpro Women’s World XI shortlist, described their connection to BBC Radio 5 Live as something that has been built over time and one that continues to improve.
City boss Jeglertz emphasized the importance of squad depth, especially with five games in two weeks. He noted that players coming off the bench, such as Fujino and Beney, are crucial to maintaining standards and pushing the team forward.
Looking Ahead to the Showdown
The two sides meet next Saturday at 13:30 GMT in a match that could prove pivotal in the title race. Chelsea will have the chance to reclaim top spot with a victory, and Bompastor is confident her experienced group can respond quickly. City, meanwhile, are wary of complacency, recalling the 2023-24 campaign when they led by three points with two games remaining but ultimately lost the title to Chelsea on goal difference.
Jeglertz insisted his focus is on his own team’s performance rather than Chelsea’s results, acknowledging that to win the league, City must battle all the way. With Shaw in scintillating form and Chelsea stuttering, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the WSL title race.
