WSL: Liverpool shock Chelsea on opening day

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 Liverpool Women 2 - 1 Chelsea Women

Liverpool striker Katie Stengel scored two penalties in the second half to send a record crowd at Prenton Park into a frenzy.

Fran Kirby had given Chelsea the lead within three minutes of kick-off from the penalty spot before the hosts mounted a stunning comeback.

Chelsea are bidding to win a fourth successive WSL title this season, while two-time champions Liverpool are back in the top flight after a two-year absence.

Reaction from The Anfield Wrap - YouTube

Matt Beard's side were made to work hard for their victory but Stengel's double was cheered deliriously by over 3,000 people at Prenton Park.

Chelsea seemed to be in good fortune when Liverpool debutant Gilly Flaherty clipped Guro Reiten in the box to give away a penalty in less than 60 seconds.

Kirby kept her cool and Chelsea began to dominate possession, though Liverpool carried a threat in attack.

Kerr had a goal disallowed for offside when she thumped in a half-volley from the edge of the box before Scotland international Erin Cuthbert struck an effort inches wide.

Emma Hayes' side started where they left off after the break, but Millie Bright was penalised harshly for a handball in the box before Chelsea's new signing Kadeisha Buchanan gave away a foul for a second Liverpool penalty in 20 minutes.

Highlights from Sky Sports Football - YouTube

It was a great way for Liverpool to mark their return to the Super League under manager Beard. 

The visitors were creative and offered plenty of movement but lacked a ruthless edge in the final third - harmed by the late withdrawal of forward Pernille Harder who sustained a slight niggle in the warm-up.

Liverpool took time to settle into the game as the intensity of Chelsea's switch of play and fluidity in midfield caused them problems. However, as the game wore on and Beard had gathered his players in at half-time, Liverpool started to find confidence and played more on the front foot in the second half.

Stengel stepped up impressively to put away both penalties in front of the Kop. It was a marker of Liverpool's intent this season as they hope to do more than just consolidate a place in the league. How far can they go this season?

The players were delighted with the win!

More Women's football

After a successful summer for England, it is anticipated that we could see some huge crowds across Women's Football this season. Click the link below for more information.

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