Brighton & Hove Albion hold WSL leaders Chelsea to hard-fought draw

Brighton & Hove Albion became just the second team to take a point off Barclays Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea this season after The Seagulls played out a 2-2 draw with The Blues at Broadfield Stadium this afternoon.

Chelsea took the lead through Sandy Baltimore but goals from Marisa Olislagers and Vicky Losada saw the game swing in the hosts’ favour. Lauren James netted a second half equaliser as the South West Londoners continued their unbeaten record this season.

Brighton & Hove Albion started the match brightly but they fell behind to a Baltimore goal in the 15th minute. She volleyed the ball into the top corner of Melina Loeck’s goal.

The Seagulls looked to respond quickly and they were able to equalise in the 22nd minute thanks to a low shot from Olislagers.

Just before half-time, Brighton & Hove Albion struck again. Club captain Losada took advantage of a low cross from Rachel McLauchlan and her first-time tap-in gave the Sussex side the lead going into the break.

Chelsea levelled matters on the hour mark. Substitute Mayra Ramírez saw a shot saved by Loeck before James converted from the rebound.

In second half injury time, James went close to finding a winning goal but she was denied by Loeck as scoreline ended level.

Chelsea return to Barclays Women’s Super League action in midweek when they play host to Leicester City while Brighton & Hove Albion’s next fixture is at Tottenham Hotspur on 16 March 2025. 

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