Lauren James nets stunning goal as Chelsea beat Tottenham to go top of Women’s Super League, Arsenal, Man Utd draw

Lauren James’ world-class goal was the highlight as Chelsea returned to the top of the Women’s Super League table courtesy of a 3-2 win at Tottenham.

Emma Hayes’ defending champions began the day in second place, but their win coupled with Manchester United’s home draw with Everton saw the Blues assume first place after 12 games of the season.

Arsenal also slipped up as they drew 0-0 against West Ham to leave them five points behind Chelsea with a game in hand.

Chelsea are one of the slickest operators in the game, but the opener on eight minutes came courtesy of a lofted ball into the box.

Erin Cuthbert’s ball had purpose, and Jessica Carter showed great desire to rise highest and glance the ball home.

Hayes would have been disappointed by the manner of Spurs’ equaliser on 16 minutes.

There was no danger when Millie Bright played the ball to defensive partner Kadeisha Buchanan, but the latter’s touch was awful and allowed Spurs to spring forward.

Drew Spence drove into the box and to the byline before laying the ball on a plate for Beth England to slot home from a yard.

Spurs were delighted to draw level at Brisbane Road, but England did not celebrate against her former club.

The goal of the game, and one of best of the season so far, came on 27 minutes from James.

The England international picked the ball up on the right flank and seemed to have only one thing in mind.

Driving infield, James slalomed through defenders before advancing into the box and slotting a low finish into the corner.

The look on team-mate Sam Kerr’s face told you all you needed to know about the goal.

Chelsea secured a vital cushion on 64 minutes, as Guro Reiten pinched possession from Celin Bizet on the halfway line and drove forward before slotting home.

Tottenham kept pushing and substitute Nikola Karczewska seized on a loose ball to score on 89 minutes and set up a tense finish, but Chelsea held on.

The win takes Chelsea two points clear of United, who were held 0-0 at home to Everton.

Arsenal recorded the same result as their title hopes took a hit.

Missing injured forwards Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema, Arsenal missed several chances as they failed to score in a WSL game for the first time in a year.