MY ACCOUNT
Emma Hayes is relishing the opportunity of leading out Chelsea at Wembley once again after Sam Kerr’s goal sent the holders into the Women’s FA Cup final.
Having lost the Conti Cup final to Arsenal last month, the Blues were desperate to see off Aston Villa in their semi-final clash at the Bescot Stadium.
And they had star striker Kerr to thank for the only goal of the game as the visitors downed Carla Ward’s in-form side to book a date with Manchester United on May 14.
With her side chasing an unprecented treble of Women’s Super League, Champions League and FA Cup glory, Hayes knows her injury-hit squad is beginning to creak.
But she insists motivation is not a problem with history beckoning.
Speaking to BBC One after the win over Villa, the Blues boss said: “You have the chance to play in the FA Cup final at Wembley, what more motivation do you need?
“This is what we all dream about, it’s what we work hard for. I’m delighted we have the opportunity to defend our title.”
Despite being without injured centre-backs Millie Bright and Kadeisha Buchanan, Chelsea stood firm as Villa pushed to ensure their impressive season could finish with an appearance in the final.
But the hosts had no answer to Kerr’s 59th-minute header, which was delivered on a plate by Guro Reiten.
Hayes added: “We took the goal when we were on top — then we dropped off and Villa made it a brilliant tie.
“They had everything to play for and nothing to lose. They gave as best as they possibly could.
“You have to expect an onslaught away from home. The pitch made it really, really challenging for the players to get a grip.
“There’s not a lot of grass in that penalty box. For that reason it made it tricky. Nonetheless, we took the goal at the right moment.
“We’re delighted to be in the final.”
Chelsea’s attention will now switch to the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on April 22.
