The first 20 minutes removed any uncertainty
Nathalie Bjorn scored with a header from Katie McCabe’s cross after three minutes. Malard doubled the lead in the 10th minute, Ellie Carpenter added the third three minutes later and Malard reacted first to a loose ball for 4-0.
Charlton, who were promoted this season, did not have time to organise their defence. Quick switches of play stretched the home team, while Chelsea quickly won the ball back near the penalty area after attacks appeared to be over.
The second half added control as well as goals
The Women’s Super League match took place on 1 November. Aggie Beever-Jones scored in the 57th minute after Keira Walsh’s backheel, and Giulia Dragoni scored the sixth goal in the 66th minute. It was her first goal for Chelsea in an official match.
Chelsea took 36 shots, their highest total in a league match this season. Charlton gradually reduced the number of chances, but the visitors still hit the woodwork twice and did not concede.
Rotation did not weaken the team
Sonia Bompastor made seven changes from the Champions League win over Roma. The early performance showed that the new selection retained clear attacking connections and understood where the next pass should go.
The victory took Chelsea back above Manchester City on goal difference. Lauren James leaving the field with an injury was the only serious concern, while Bjorn’s return for her first league start in almost a year was an important positive.