Chelsea Women produced a strong second-half performance to secure a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace away from home, with Melvine Malard scoring twice and Sandy Baltimore adding a late penalty.
The Blues had to overcome a frustrating opening period after Palace took the lead, but an improved display after the interval helped Sonia Bompastor’s side turn the game around and claim all three points.
Chelsea started brightly, looking to take control of the contest despite challenging weather conditions in south London. Alyssa Thompson threatened down the left flank, while Ellie Carpenter combined effectively with Malard in the attacking areas.
The visitors came close to breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute when Maika Hamano forced a save from the Palace goalkeeper. Malard then saw another attempt cleared off the line as Chelsea continued to apply pressure.
However, Palace took the lead in the 20th minute. Molly Bartrip reacted quickest following a corner, forcing the ball into the net to put the home side ahead and leave Chelsea facing an unexpected challenge.
The Blues struggled to find their rhythm before the break, with Palace working hard to protect their advantage.
Malard Inspires Chelsea's Comeback
Chelsea returned for the second half with greater urgency, and their improved approach paid off just five minutes after the restart.
Malard produced an impressive finish from the edge of the penalty area in the 50th minute, restoring parity and giving the visitors fresh momentum.
The contest remained closely fought as Crystal Palace attempted to hold on, but Chelsea continued searching for a breakthrough.
Their persistence was rewarded when substitute Sandy Baltimore created the decisive opportunity. Showing determination on the left, she delivered a dangerous ball into the area, allowing Malard to rise and head home her second goal of the afternoon.
With Chelsea now in front, Baltimore had the opportunity to add her name to the scoresheet late in the game. After Malard was brought down inside the penalty area, the referee awarded Chelsea a spot-kick, which Baltimore converted to complete the 3-1 victory.
Bompastor Makes Changes to Her Starting XI
Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor made two changes to her starting line-up, bringing in Sjoeke Nüsken and Maika Hamano in place of Keira Walsh and Lauren James.
Manaka Matsukubo was also included in the matchday squad for the first time since arriving from North Carolina Courage during the summer transfer window.
Despite their first-half difficulties, Chelsea showed the quality and determination needed to recover from a setback and finish the match strongly.
The victory was built on Malard's clinical finishing and Baltimore's influential contribution, as the Blues demonstrated their ability to respond under pressure and leave Crystal Palace with a valuable three points.