Hat-trick hero Lauren James was delighted to make the all-important difference as she inspired Chelsea to a 3-1 victory over Manchester United in the Women’s Super League.
A smart outside-of-the-foot finish was quickly followed up by a powerful half-volley to give Chelsea a two-goal lead before the Red Devils reduced the arrears on the stroke of half-time through Hayley Ladd. James would have the final say though, scoring her third with a composed finish into the bottom corner.
The 22-year-old was pleased to earn a victory that means the Blues are still three points ahead at the top of the WSL table, especially in front of the Chelsea faithful at Stamford Bridge.
She began: ‘It’s always tough playing against Manchester United, but we have the fans behind us here at Stamford Bridge.
‘We love playing here and I think our performance from the start today showed that everyone was up for it. I love scoring and try to do that as much as possible to help the team win.’
James spent three seasons as a Manchester United player before leaving to join Chelsea in the summer of 2021.
As a result, there were a few hostilities aimed the 22-year-old's way by the travelling support, not that James let it impact her performance.
She added: ‘For me, it’s about focusing on what I can do and silencing anyone who is hating as well. I’ve just got to focus on myself and helping the team.’