Chloe Kelly featured in Arsenal’s north London derby win, Bunny Shaw scored a superb brace for City and Lauren James’ late winner restored Chelsea’s cushion at the top.
Here are the talking points from the weekend’s Women’s Super League matches…
Kelly’s homecoming and Arsenal’s north London dominance
Chloe Kelly’s emotional return to Arsenal stole the headlines, but the Gunners’ ruthless dismantling of Tottenham underlined the growing gulf between the two north London rivals, with Arsenal having now won nine of their 11 WSL meetings.
Making her first WSL appearance in two months – and her first for Arsenal in over seven years – Kelly’s 61st-minute introduction was met with a standing ovation from the Emirates crowd. Though she did not get on the scoresheet in the 5-0 win, striking the crossbar late on, her mere presence added to the celebratory mood. Kelly has been called up to the England squad today after injuries to Beth Mead and Lotte Wubben-Moy.
For Tottenham, however, it was another harsh reality check. Clare Hunt’s early own goal set the tone for a defensive collapse, with Arsenal’s attacking trio of Alessia Russo, Mariona Caldentey, and Frida Maanum running riot. Spurs boss Robert Vilahamn admitted afterwards that the “numbers say it all,” as his side’s defensive vulnerabilities were again laid bare. They sit sixth in the table.
Lauren James is Chelsea’s difference maker
Even on an off day, Chelsea always seem to find a way – and once again, it was Lauren James who delivered when it mattered most. Her stunning 93rd-minute winner against Everton maintained the Blues’ relentless pursuit of another WSL title and left manager Sonia Bompastor full of praise for her “magic” match-winner.
Chelsea had to dig deep after Toffees’ star January signing Kelly Gago’s superb strike gave Everton a shock lead early in the second half. Mayra Ramirez responded to level the game, but it seemed the leaders would drop points at home for the first time this season, until James stepped up in the dying moments of the match.
Despite a laboured performance, the champions extended their form to 26 wins in 27 matches. With Sam Kerr’s return looming, an unbeaten WSL season feels increasingly within reach.
A “powerful” comeback for Bunny Shaw
Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw’s triumphant return to Manchester City’s starting lineup could not have been more emphatic. With two clinical first-half goals, the WSL’s leading scorer not only reignited City’s push for top three but also made a powerful statement against the racist abuse she recently endured. After her opening strike, Shaw raised her fist in a ‘Black Power’ salute – in a gesture of defiance and solidarity.
On Shaw’s celebration, manager Gareth Taylor said: “It’s powerful, obviously. Bunny’s a proud black woman and where she’s come from means a lot to her.
“We’ve supported her as we always will do and the team were there for her tonight. It’s nice for her to be able to feel the love from the supporters and the club.”
Shaw’s return once again showcased her physicality and finesse that make her irreplaceable and it is unsurprising that her absence coincided with City’s slump. Jill Roord’s strike and a goal from youngster Gracie Prior sealed a crucial 4-0 win, keeping City two points behind third-placed Arsenal.
Bunny Shaw’s technique 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/skuyFaCsh2
— Manchester City Women (@ManCityWomen) February 17, 2025
Terland double keeps Man United second
Elisabeth Terland’s clinical finishing powered Manchester United to a sixth consecutive WSL victory, as they overcame a stubborn Crystal Palace 3-1 to stay second in the title race. The Norwegian striker’s brace showcased her composure and instinct, with her second goal proving decisive after United had wobbled before half-time.
Despite United’s early dominance, Mille Gejl’s equaliser exposed rare defensive frailties, offering Palace hope of a crucial point. But Terland’s alertness in the 64th minute restored United’s lead, before Grace Clinton’s late header from an Ella Toone free-kick sealed the win.
With seven WSL goals this season, Terland is hitting form at a crucial time for Marc Skinner’s side, who sit seven points behind leaders Chelsea. Meanwhile, bottom-placed Palace face an uphill battle to avoid relegation.
There’s so much to love about this Teri opener 😮💨👏#MUWomen
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) February 17, 2025
Captain Cayman fires Leicester to victory
Janice Cayman’s double inspired Leicester to a crucial 3-0 victory over Aston Villa, lifting the Foxes to 10th place and six points clear of 12th-placed Crystal Palace. In a season plagued by attacking injuries, Cayman’s leadership and finishing provided a much-needed spark as Leicester put their goalscoring struggles behind them.
Cayman’s composed finish for the opener settled nerves, before her stunning volley early in the second half doubled the lead. Julie Thibaud’s close-range header moments later sealed Leicester’s most comprehensive win of the season. They had only scored six goals before this match.
Despite having over 70% possession, Villa lacked cutting edge and are still awaiting their first WSL win under new boss Natalia Arroyo. They sit just four points above the drop zone at present.
On repeat today 🔁
— LCFC Women (@LCFC_Women) February 17, 2025
Too early for Goal of the Season? 🚀
Hammers climb to eighth
West Ham climbed to eighth with a 3-1 victory over Brighton, securing their second win in three matches and moved eight points clear of the relegation zone.
Riko Ueki played a pivotal role, assisting Shekiera Martinez’s opener after 11 minutes and later restoring West Ham’s lead in the 64th minute by punishing a defensive error. Viviane Asseyi sealed the win four minutes later, converting a penalty after being fouled by Rachel McLauchlan.
Brighton had drawn level through Nikita Parris’ fifth goal of the season, in the week she was recalled to the England squad, but they failed to capitalise on several chances.
While West Ham now sit just four points behind Brighton, Dario Vidosic’s Seagulls remain winless in six league games, with pressure mounting as the season progresses.
Pounced. Punished. Perfect. ⚡️
— West Ham United Women (@westhamwomen) February 17, 2025
Ueki wins it high and slots home with ease! pic.twitter.com/43SpEAQprl
