Playing the game in the lashing rain under the floodlights in a winner takes all match: that’s what it’s all about. For the latest stop in our ‘Framed’ Series, we headed to Kingsmeadow Stadium, Kingston upon Thames, for the Women's League Cup semi-final that saw Chelsea hosting Manchester City.
The stadium – almost hidden behind neighbouring residential houses – was the perfect setting for such an occasion, supplying the requisite combination of atmosphere and magic needed for this type of cup clash.
In a repeat of last season, the stage was once more set for City and Chelsea to go at it for a place in the final. Last season saw Man City win 1-0, but things looked like they may be different in the first half as Chelsea got off to the better start in front of the chilled fans huddling in the all seated and, importantly, covered main stand as they braved the elements in support of their teams.
However, with chances going begging for the home side, it was Manchester City who made the break through in the second half when England striker Nikita Parris slotted home from the spot after she was taken down in the area. Her second of the night followed in the 82nd minute as she found herself in space, sprinting clear of the defence to side-foot home, much to the joy of the travelling supporters who were rewarded for their commitment.
The win sets up a meeting with Arsenal in the final at Bramall Lane, Sheffield on 23 February in yet another repeat of last season. City, however, will be hoping that the repeats end there…
copy
