Sam Kerr opens Chelsea account in thumping WSL win over Arsenal

Sam Kerr opened her account for Chelsea in a 4-1 thumping of London rivals Arsenal.

Sam Kerr, left, celebrates scoring for Chelsea against Arsenal in the Women’s Super League. Picture: Getty Images

Matildas captain Sam Kerr opened her goalscoring account in England’s Women’s Super League as Chelsea hammered league leaders Arsenal 4-1 at Meadow Park.

Kerr headed home a deep cross from Norwegian winger Guro Reiten after 13 minutes to put the Blues 2-0 up, shortly after Bethany England had given Chelsea an early lead on Sunday night (AEDT).

A stunning left-footed strike from the edge of the area from Sophie Ingle increased Chelsea’s lead seven minutes later to stun the hosts, who had lost just once this season and won their last five matches.

Reigning champions Arsenal, who are coached by Australian Joe Montemurro, found themselves 4-0 down after 68 minutes when Reiten headed past Manuela Zinsberger from close range.

Top goal after top goal after top goal.

Man City now sit in first spot on the WSL table thanks to Chelsea's sensational win over Arsenal.
#OptusSport pic.twitter.com/gs4cprdrk3

— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) January 20, 2020

Beth Mead grabbed a consolation for the Gunners but Chelsea closed the game out in efficient manner to wrap up a third successive victory.

The Blues sit a point behind new leaders Manchester City, who went ahead of Arsenal on goal difference after beating Birmingham 2-0.

But Emma Hayes’ Chelsea side have a game in hand.

Despite having to wait two WSL games before witnessing the W-League’s all time topscorer Kerr get on the scoresheet, Hayes was full of praise for England, claiming the Lionesses’ striker scored a “worldie” of a goal.

“I am really happy for Sam but Beth (England) deserves so much credit,” Hayes said.

“There has been talk over the years about Jodie Taylor and Ellen White, but that girl is England’s number nine as far as I am concerned.”

AAP