Chelsea fans rejoiced as Sam Kerr marked her return from a 634-day injury absence with a goal in their 3-1 victory over Aston Villa. The Matildas superstar, sidelined for nearly two years due to an ACL injury, made an immediate impact upon entering the game as a second-half substitute. Kerr's goal not only sealed the win for Chelsea but also marked her 100th goal for the club.
The Australian international ruptured her ACL during a warm-weather training camp in January 2024, making her return all the more anticipated. Coming on as a substitute, Kerr wasted no time in finding the net, much to the delight of her teammates and the Chelsea faithful.
Meanwhile, in the Women's Super League, Manchester United delivered a dominant performance, thrashing London City Lionesses 5-1. The Red Devils showcased their attacking prowess, with Melvine Malard scoring twice. Maya Le Tissier opened the scoring with a penalty, celebrating her 100th appearance for the club in style. Jayde Riviere added a second with a stunning strike from a tight angle, marking her 50th game for the team with her first goal for the club.
Malard's brace further extended United's lead, with Jess Park adding a fifth to complete the rout. Nikita Parris managed to pull one back for the Lionesses against her former club, but it proved to be a mere consolation.
Manchester United's commanding victory sees them continue their strong start to the Women's Super League season. The team displayed their attacking depth and clinical finishing, leaving their opponents with no chance. The win also provides a timely confidence boost ahead of their crucial Champions League return leg against Brann.
For London City Lionesses, the defeat serves as a harsh lesson in the competitive nature of the Women's Super League. Despite Parris' goal, they were unable to match Manchester United's intensity and quality. The Lionesses will need to regroup and learn from this experience as they seek to establish themselves in the league.
In other Women's Super League action, Leicester City bounced back from having Shannon O'Brien sent off to beat Liverpool 1-0, with Emily van Egmond scoring the winner.
