The Blues took an early lead through Chelsea N'Drin's penalty before the hosts levelled after the interval. Keira Johnson (pictured top) then struck in stoppage time to secure all three points for Leanne Champ's side.

Chelsea had 60 per cent possession and created 25 attempts, with 14 on target, as we battled well against a tough Brighton side. The fixture also provided an opportunity for players returning from England Women's Under-17s activity against Finland to feature again.

N'Drin strikes from the spot

Chelsea made a positive start and were rewarded with the opening goal after just three minutes. Patient build-up play across the back line allowed Gabi Storey to step forward with the ball and play beyond the Brighton midfield. Rebekah Pierce flicked the ball on, allowing N'Drin to use her pace to run past the Brighton centre-backs.

The Brighton goalkeeper came off her line and brought down the forward, leaving the referee no option but to point to the spot. N'Drin took responsibility and converted with power and placement across the goal. The Blues continued to work hard against a tough Brighton side, creating opportunities while managing the hosts' threat.

Johnson wins it late

Brighton drew level after 64 minutes when a Chelsea attempt to play into midfield was intercepted. The hosts worked the ball to a winger who had moved inside, and she beat two Chelsea players before striking powerfully from around 20 yards. Her effort dipped underneath the crossbar to bring the scores level.

Chelsea responded and continued to create chances, with Sophie Leach introduced for Sadie Gregory on the hour mark and Annie Boichat replacing Tess Finn at the same time. Stevie Sinclair had also come on for captain Belle Sullivan at half-time, while Jahyma Putman replaced Carla Gardiner.

The decisive moment arrived in the second minute of added time. Leach, Zoe Ciccardini and Johnson combined during the build-up before a Brighton defender stepped in to challenge Johnson. Good positioning from Elise Christian allowed Chelsea to regain possession on the left.

Christian drove forward into the space in front of her and, approaching the edge of the penalty area, slipped a perfectly weighted pass through to Johnson. The midfielder finished first time with her left foot across goal to secure a dramatic late victory.

What it means

Chelsea remain unbeaten in the PGA South League, with 12 points from four fixtures. The Blues have scored 20 goals and conceded just two during our opening four league matches.

What's next?

Chelsea now welcome Arsenal Under-21s to Kingsmeadow for our first fixture of the season at the stadium on Sunday 20 September. Kick-off is at 7.30pm and admission is free. Details of how to secure a ticket are here.

Team

Chelsea Women Under-18s (4-3-3): Freya Weeks; Elise Christian, Sadie Gregory (Sophie Leach 60), Gabi Storey, Zoe Ciccardini; Belle Sullivan (c) (Stevie Sinclair h/t), Tess Finn (Annie Boichat 60), Keira Johnson; Rebekah Pierce, Chelsea N’Drin, Carla Gardiner (Jahyma Putman h/t)

Scorers: N’Drin 3 (pen), Johnson 90+2

Manager: Leanne Champ