Chelsea Women's Under-18s, who play in the PGA Under-21 Women's League, suffered our first defeat of the season as Arsenal Under-21s recorded a 2-0 victory at Kingsmeadow.
The Blues performed well in their first fixture at Kingsmeadow this term, with possession fairly evenly split and Chelsea creating more opportunities on goal. However, two second-half goals saw Arsenal take the points.
The Blues continued to compete until the final whistle despite falling behind, with Leanne Champ's side unable to find a way through the visitors' defence.
Arsenal break the deadlock
The opening half was closely contested, with neither side finding a breakthrough before the interval. Chelsea worked to create chances against a resolute Arsenal defence, with the Blues looking to build attacks and make the most of their possession.
Yet there was no reward for the hosts before the break as the two teams went into half-time level.
Visitors strike twice
Arsenal took the lead after 58 minutes. An inswinging corner was met first by Keira Johnson, who reacted to clear the ball. However, it only reached an Arsenal player on the edge of the penalty area, who brought the ball under control before striking powerfully beyond Freya Weeks to put the visitors ahead.
Chelsea made a double change after 63 minutes, with Aysia Matabaro and Carla Gardiner replacing Rebekah Pierce and Chelsea N'Drin.
The Blues continued to battle for an equaliser but Arsenal doubled their advantage with 17 minutes remaining. A free-kick was awarded 30 yards from goal following a challenge from Annie Boichat. The defender was shown a yellow card, with Arsenal's No.56 taking responsibility for the set-piece.
Her strike dipped high into the right-hand side of Weeks' goal to make it 2-0. Chelsea continued to perform and fight until the end but could not find a way back into the match.
What it means
The result brings Chelsea's unbeaten start to the PGA Under-21 Women's League season to an end after four victories from our opening four fixtures.
What's next?
Chelsea return to Kingsmeadow on Wednesday 23 September when we face Ipswich Town in the PGA Under-21 Women's League. The fixture is behind closed doors.
Team
Chelsea (4-3-3): Freya Weeks; Elise Christian, Annie Boichat, Gabi Storey, Zoe Ciccardini; Belle Sullivan (c), Stevie Sinclair, Keira Johnson; Rebekah Pierce (Aysia Matabaro 63’), Chelsea N’Drin (Carla Gardiner 63’), Jahmya Putman
Booked: 35’ N’Drin. 72’ Boichat. 78’ Storey
Head Coach – Leanne Champ