Chelsea produced an impressive second-half comeback to beat Crystal Palace in the WSL, overturning an early deficit to secure all three points.
The hosts took the lead after 20 minutes when Molly Bartrip found the back of the net. Chelsea created several promising opportunities before the break but were unable to find an equaliser, leaving them with work to do in the second half.
Sonia Bompastor responded by introducing Erin Cuthbert at half-time, and the change helped Chelsea return to the pitch with renewed energy and attacking intent. Their improved performance quickly paid off as Melvine Malard levelled the scores in the 51st minute before completing her brace 24 minutes later to put the visitors ahead.
Crystal Palace continued to look for opportunities to get back into the contest, but Chelsea maintained their attacking threat. The Blues were then awarded a penalty after Malard was fouled inside the area, giving them the chance to extend their advantage.
Substitute Sandy Baltimore stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to put the result beyond doubt. Both sides made further changes during the closing stages, with Manaka Matsukubo making her debut, but Chelsea saw out the remainder of the match to take all three points back to West London.
The victory moves Chelsea to the top of the WSL table on 19 points, level with Manchester City but ahead on goal difference. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, remain 13th on six points as they continue their battle to avoid relegation.
Check out the photographs from Jasmine Bishop (@shots_by_jazz), who was pitchside to capture the action.
