Chelsea Bounce Back with Six-Goal Victory over Roma
Millie Bright had rejected talk of a dip following a end of an unbeaten run, and a comprehensive 6-0 triumph in their final home Champions League group game silenced the doubters.
Fortuitous Start Sets the Tone
An own goal from Valentina Bergamaschi sapped the resistance of Roma in the 13th minute, with additional goals scored by Wieke Kaptein, Lucy Bronze.
Lyon’s 3-0 defeat and a key draw 2-2 draw resulted in Chelsea climbing to third place, within touching distance of automatic progression to the European quarter-finals.
Fresh Legs and a Early Pressure
Back in the XI since a draw with Liverpool, the defender was one of six changes to the side that fell to Everton in the WSL.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea applied early pressure. An early effort from the French forward curled just wide in the initial exchanges.
Despite a inability to progress, Roma showed early signs to make a statement, with their right side looking dangerous.
Momentum Swings
The early setback was a significant moment for the Serie A side. Control shifted decisively Chelsea's way, and it was two goals up before the break, with a precise finish firing in after a headed assist from her teammate.
A comfortable cushion was stretched right on halftime, the goalscorer turning in after the keeper had parried an close-range attempt.
Adding to the Tally
After the interval, a spot-kick was scored by the German to make it four-nil.
The team showed no mercy in their quest for more goals, with the recent defeat perhaps providing motivation.
- The 19-year-old went near to scoring on her promising cameo, forcing a smart reaction from the Roma keeper.
- The Maika Hamano's effort came after an incisive run exposed a chaotic Roma backline.
- The last nail in the coffin was a cross from the England international that found the net at the opposite corner.
Mission Accomplished
Following the win and events elsewhere going their way, Chelsea gained control of their path to secure a place in the last eight.
A last fixture away to two-time Champions League winners Wolfsburg is the only thing standing between Chelsea and an playoff-free route to the next round.
