Chelsea Women's Player Ratings vs Man City: Aggie Beever-Jones Shines in Defending Champions' Season Opener
The Lionesses striker claimed her place in the starting lineup and made an impact as Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory against Manchester City. Read on for a breakdown of the key performances in this statement win at Stamford Bridge.
The Lionesses striker got the nod up top ahead of Catarina Macario and she took her opportunity, kickstarting a big win for the Blues.Goals from Aggie Beever-Jones and Maika Hamano saw Chelsea start their Women's Super League defence in ruthless fashion on Friday night, the Blues defeating Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in a 2-1 win. Expectations are certainly high in the blue corner of London after Sonia Bompastor's first season in charge, which saw her side go unbeaten in domestic competitions as they won an invincible treble. On their first outing of the new campaign, the champions showed just why they are capable of such remarkable achievements, too, with them clinical in front of goal in a competitive contest between two teams expected to battle for the WSL title.Chelsea were missing several stars for their season opener, with all of Lauren James, Naomi Girma and Lucy Bronze watching from the sidelines due to injuries. It was the player in the latter's place, though, who stepped up and really caught the eye, as Ellie Carpenter showed just why she is a world-class player. It was the two-time European champion who delivered the perfect cross for Beever-Jones to break the deadlock and set the Blues on their way to victory. That lead was doubled just past the hour by Hamano, with Wieke Kaptein this time causing havoc down City's left with a ball that somehow found its way all the way through to the lively Japan international, whose display deserved a goal.City, in their first game under new head coach Andree Jeglertz, had their chances. Alex Greenwood hit the woodwork with a stunning free-kick, Khadija Shaw was twice denied when one-on-one with Hannah Hampton and they would get a goal back to make things interesting, when a free-kick hit the unlucky Niamh Charles and went into the back of her own net. However, the difference between these two was simply that Chelsea didn't waste their opportunities. That's a big reason why they've won all of the last six WSL titles and why they remain the team to beat.GOAL rates Chelsea's players from Stamford Bridge...
Aggie Beever-Jones: 8/10
Beever-Jones opened the scoring with a well-taken goal, showcasing her clinical finishing abilities. Her movement and work rate troubled the City defense throughout the game.
Ellie Carpenter: 8.5/10
Carpenter's stellar performance was highlighted by her assist for the opening goal. The summer signing impressed with her pace, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute offensively.
Maika Hamano: 7.5/10
Hamano doubled Chelsea's lead with a well-executed goal and was a constant threat in the final third. Her intelligent runs created problems for City's backline.
Sonia Bompastor's Tactical Acumen: 9/10
Bompastor's strategic decisions paid off as Chelsea displayed a well-rounded performance. Her team's cohesion and organization were key in securing the victory.
Wieke Kaptein's Impact: 7/10
Kaptein's direct play and creativity were instrumental in Chelsea's attacking play. Her assist for Hamano's goal showcased her ability to unlock defenses.
Hannah Hampton's Solid Goalkeeping: 8/10
Hampton made crucial saves to deny City and preserve Chelsea's lead. Her composure under pressure was commendable, keeping her team in control of the game.
Andree Jeglertz's Tactical Approach: 7/10
In his first match in charge, Jeglertz's City side showed promise with their attacking intent. Despite the loss, his team's fighting spirit and determination were evident.
Chelsea's Ruthless Efficiency: Key to Success
Chelsea's ability to capitalize on their scoring opportunities was decisive in securing the victory. Their clinical finishing and disciplined defensive display demonstrated why they are WSL champions.
