⚡ Key Highlights
Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the sixth round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game
Digital journalist Laura Hunter returns for a second season with a WSL-dedicated column, analysing all the big talking points from across the weekend's action; this week's focus is on Chelsea's resurgence and Man Utd's swift development under Eva Olid
Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the sixth round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game. Plus: Vote on the topics you want covered in the next few weeks.
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It's been a long time since Chelsea entered a domestic campaign as underdogs. The bookies might have had them as favourites to win the WSL title before a ball was kicked but most hardened observers chose Man City as the more likely champions. The market appeared to be hedging their bets on history.
While I still believe Man City are the team to beat, Chelsea's start to the season cannot be ignored. After seven played they are top by virtue of goal difference, with a perfect record since their opening day draw with Aston Villa. City and Chelsea's results in a head-to-head count are actually identical - but of course the nip and tuck is more nuanced than that.
Chelsea's win from behind to beat Crystal Palace at the weekend, without Keira Walsh or Lauren James, was a deliberate show of strength. And an indication of Sonia Bompastor's intent to balance her squad between priorities. The Blues host Roma in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Are they equipped to sustain such momentum? The numbers suggest they are well placed to compete with Man City. Chelsea are the league's top scorers, best chance creators and have conceded the fewest goals against. Dig a bit deeper into the data and their improved output presents the picture of a team revitalised.
It may have taken two years, but Bompastor has finally got her wish. The Frenchwoman always wanted her side to have greater technical control but was struggling to get the arrangement right, especially in midfield. At long last, Chelsea are a team with an identifiable attacking style, based on the principles of progressive, possession-orientated football.
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