Chelsea relish passing game – Rafferty

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Claire Rafferty says Chelsea Ladies’ desire to play possession football even when under pressure, coupled with an improved attacking threat, makes them a dangerous side.

New signing Gemma Davison scored twice as the Blues opened their Women’s Super League campaign with an impressive 2-1 win over Notts County Ladies on Sunday.

And England left-back Rafferty told West London Sport the eagerness to keep the ball and remain patient that was so evident is instilled in them by manager Emma Hayes and is also part of the club’s ethos.

“We train like that every day so it’s not natural for us to go long even when we are under pressure,” she said.

“Maybe sometimes we should go long a bit more to relieve the pressure, but that is not how Emma wants us to play. She wants us to play our way out and that is the mentality within the whole club.

“Eni (Aluko) and Gemma are a real force, and Ji So-Yun as well, and we like to let them express themselves by keeping the ball. That allows them to wander and they can really do that and pose a threat.”

Rafferty and her team-mates face another away game on Thursday, against Bristol Academy, and the defender said confidence would be high after beating a side they failed to beat in two meetings last season.

“We are buzzing to get the first game out of the way,” Rafferty added.

“We lost the league only on goal difference but did well to finish second and we have high expectations for this season. It was bit of relief to get the season off to that start we wanted.

“It certainly points us in the right direction. Winning that first game felt really good.”

You can read Claire Rafferty’s thoughts on the new season in her West London Sport column which will be a regular feature again this season.

Chelsea Ladies play their first home FA Women’s Super League game of the season against Liverpool on Sunday 19 April at Wheatsheaf Park, Staines Town FC. Kick-off is at 2pm and tickets are currently available priced at £5 for adults and £3 for juniors/seniors.

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