LAUREN JAMES scored after just 17 seconds — but Aileen Whelan’s equaliser denied Manchester United a top-four spot.
James put the hosts ahead with a peach of a cross-shot in from the left just after kick-off.
Lauren James – sister of Chelsea star Reece – scored after just 17 seconds as Man Utd drew 1-1 with BrightonCredit: Getty Images
But she may be denied her place on the scoresheet because the ball bounced home off dumbfounded Brighton keeper Megan Walsh, who should have done better.
After a perfectly-timed run, James — who oozed quality in the first half — was denied a chance to double the lead from the same spot by Walsh.
The Seagulls stopper parried her effort into the path of Dutch midfielder Jackie Groenen, who was unable to make the crucial touch.
BLUES AVOID BRUM RAP
TITLE-CHASERS Chelsea kept up their winning streak with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Birmingham.
The visiting Midlanders were the last side to beat Chelsea in the Women’s Super League.
But a fortunate half-time strike for Guro Reiten and a second-half goal for Beth England sealed the unbeaten Blues’ 12th win of the season.
Chelsea stay a point behind leaders MANCHESTER CITY. In interim boss Alan Mahon’s first game in charge, City won thanks to Gemma Bonner’s effort against rock-bottom BRISTOL CITY.
Goals from Jade Moore and Brooke Chaplen gave READING a 2-0 victory over WEST HAM while ten-player TOTTENHAM drew 2-2 with EVERTON.
Spurs were 2-1 down when Rosella Ayane was sent off late on for kicking out at an opponent. But Emma Mitchell got the equaliser a minute later.
James — sister of Chelsea men’s starlet Reece — then supplied a stunning set-up for Groenen, who flashed her effort wide.
Groenen broke free again but fired uninspiringly straight at the keeper.
And United paid for those misses just before the break at Crawley’s Broadfield Stadium.
Kayleigh Green sent in a cross and after a desperate scramble in the box, Seagulls top-scorer Whelan rose highest to head home.
Tempers flared at half-time and James had to be ushered away by United keeper Mary Earps for laying into the referee.
The home side were fired up in the second half and Lea Le Garrec linked with Whelan, who broke free but struck low at Earps.
Amanda Nilden stung Earps’ hands, then the Reds keeper rose majestically to prevent the Swede’s tap-in with the clock running down.
Lauren James’ brother Reece plays for ChelseaCredit: Getty Images
Frank Lampard praises Reece James after he signed his new five-and-a-half year Chelsea deal
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
