Lauren James attributed her influential performance to the freedom she had, which helped Chelsea win against Arsenal and extend their lead in the Women’s Super League.
The 22-year-old star gave Chelsea the lead by shooting past Manuela Zinsberger after evading her defender.
Six minutes later, Sjoeke Nusken scored with a header from a long-range shot by Erin Cuthbert, increasing Chelsea’s lead.
After the break, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd's shot deflected off her leg and caught Zinsberger off guard, giving Nusken a great chance to seal the victory.
Arsenal managed to score a late consolation goal when Catarina Macario's shot was deflected by Kim Little.
James expressed her excitement about playing at Stamford Bridge and how it boosts her confidence after the match.
She told Sky Sports, “It's always great to play here and I feel liberated with the support of the fans. It definitely helped us build momentum and today's game proved that.
“Everyone allows me to have freedom, and those behind me ensure I fulfill my defensive duties. And if I do, they say ‘do whatever you want when you have the ball’.
“I don't really dwell on it, I just take advantage of the opportunities presented to me and give my best.”
Arsenal’s title hopes have been significantly dented by the result, as they are now six points behind Chelsea, who are three points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.
Chelsea manager, Emma Hayes, was quick to commend her team after a convincing victory in West London.
She told BBC Sport, “I expected a Chelsea standard, and that's exactly what I saw in the performance tonight. I thought every player made a fantastic effort to produce what was required.
“We've been depleted, we had to field Lauren James as a center-forward today, and she did an outstanding job. But this is about the entire team, and it's an incredible effort from everyone.”
