Chelsea 1-0 Aston Villa: Women's Super League - Live Reaction

Bethany England's goal gives Chelsea a crucial win

Chelsea moved back to the top of the Women's Super League with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Kingsmeadow on Sunday. Bethany England's first-half goal was enough to secure the points for the Blues, who had to dig deep to see off a spirited Villa side.

The win sees Chelsea move two points clear of Arsenal at the top of the table, although the Gunners have a game in hand. Villa, meanwhile, remain in 11th place, but they will be encouraged by their performance against one of the league's top teams.

Chelsea dominate but Villa threaten

Chelsea started the game brightly and took the lead in the 20th minute when England converted a cross from Guro Reiten. The Blues continued to dominate possession for the rest of the half, but they were unable to add to their lead.

Villa came out with more purpose in the second half and began to create chances of their own. Rachel Daly was particularly lively for the visitors, and she came close to equalizing on several occasions.

However, Chelsea held on for a vital win, which keeps their title hopes alive. Emma Hayes' side will now face Arsenal in a crucial match at the Emirates Stadium next weekend.

England the match-winner

Bethany England was the match-winner for Chelsea, scoring her sixth goal of the season in all competitions. The England international has been in excellent form in recent weeks, and she is now Chelsea's top scorer in the WSL.

England's goal was a well-taken finish, and it proved to be the difference between the two sides. The 28-year-old is a key player for Chelsea, and she will be hoping to continue her good form in the coming weeks.

Villa show spirit in defeat

Aston Villa may have lost the match, but they showed great spirit and determination throughout the game. Carla Ward's side never gave up, and they created several chances of their own.

Rachel Daly was particularly impressive for Villa, and she will be hoping to continue her good form in the coming weeks. The Scotland international is a dangerous forward, and she will be key to Villa's hopes of avoiding relegation.