Chelsea vs Aston Villa LIVE: Women’s Super League result and final score as new season gets underway
Chelsea 1-0 Aston Villa: Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s superb strike gave the hosts a winning start in the WSL opener
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Champions Chelsea opened the new Women’s Super League season with a nervy victory over Aston Villa in their first match under Sonia Bompastor.
Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s superb strike in the 37th minute was the difference at a sold-out Kingsmeadow to give Bompastor a winning start after replacing Emma Hayes in the summer.
But Villa, who were also under a new boss in Robert de Pauw, were bright throughout and made life difficult for the hosts. Rachel Daly hit the top of the crossbar with a looping header, before the visitors pilled on the pressure in stoppage time.
In stoppage time, Hannah Hampton was forced to make two brilliant saves - denying Daly and then Villa goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo, who had been thrown forward in a final row of the dice for the visitors.
Chelsea held on to start their bid for a sixth-consecutive WSL title, where they are expected to face competition once again from Manchester City and Arsenal over the season. Those teams meet at the Emirates on Sunday.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Attempt saved. Rachel Daly (Aston Villa Women) header from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Jordan Nobbs with a cross.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Corner, Aston Villa Women. Conceded by Millie Bright.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Fourth official has announced 3 minutes of added time.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Substitution, Aston Villa Women. Ebony Salmon replaces Lucy Parker.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Substitution, Chelsea Women. Lauren James replaces Johanna Rytting Kaneryd.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Kadeisha Buchanan (Chelsea Women) wins a free kick in the attacking half.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Attempt saved. Adriana Leon (Aston Villa Women) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner.
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Offside, Aston Villa Women. Adriana Leon is caught offside.
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