The Blues, who play in the PGA Under-21 Women's League, conceded inside the opening minute but responded strongly after the break, with Stevie Sinclair (pictured top) scoring twice to complete the comeback.

The result keeps Chelsea top of Group D after two WNL Cup matches.

Swindon strike early

Chelsea controlled possession from the start but were caught out when a central pass into midfield was turned over. Swindon won the first contact and transitioned quickly, with a diagonal pass finding their winger inside the Chelsea back line. The ball was struck first time with power, giving the hosts the lead after just one minute.

The Blues had to work hard to defend Swindon's longer balls and adjust to a difficult surface, but remained in the contest as we looked to respond.

Sinclair completes comeback

Chelsea made three changes at the interval, with Annie Boichat, Stevie Sinclair and Chelsea N'Drin introduced for Sophie Leach, Tess Finn and Carla Gardiner.

The changes helped the Blues produce a positive second-half performance, and we drew level after 64 minutes. Rebekah Pierce battled for possession after Chelsea regained the ball from a throw-in in the middle third, before receiving the ball from Elise Christian.

Pierce turned outside her opponent and, after the Swindon defender went to ground, her effort from the left was palmed back into the six-yard box. Sinclair had positioned herself in the right area and reacted instinctively to finish first time.

Chelsea continued to push forward and completed the turnaround with 13 minutes remaining. Pierce dropped deep to combine with Gabi Storey before playing the ball forward. N'Drin had moved into the left channel and drove at her defender before cutting inside. She then produced a well-weighted pass into the path of Sinclair on the edge of the box, with the midfielder using her left foot to lift the ball over the goalkeeper and complete her brace.

What it means

The result means Chelsea sit top of Group D after two Women’s National League Cup group games. The Blues have enjoyed the challenge of playing and competing against Women's National League opposition, with this victory following our opening group-stage win.

What's next?

After a busy period of four games in 11 days, Chelsea return to PGA Under-21 Women's League action when we travel to Brighton on Wednesday 16 September. Some of the squad will also be away with their national teams during the international period.

Team

Chelsea (4-3-3): Freya Weeks; Elise Christian, Gabi Storey, Sophie Leach (Annie Boichat h/t), Zoe Ciccardini; Belle Sullivan (c), Keira Johnston, Tess Finn (Stevie Sinclair h/t); Jahmya Putman (Rebekah Pierce 59), Carla Gardiner (Chelsea N’Drin h/t), Maisie Brickell.
Scorers: Sinclair 64, 77
Booked: N’Drin 88
Manager: Leanne Champ