WSL: Hamano first-half strike sees Chelsea defeat Tottenham to go top with one game remaining

Chelsea took command of the Women's Super League title race with one game remaining after a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, putting the reigning champions ahead of the competition on goal difference.

Maika Hamano's 37th-minute strike into the roof of the net off a brilliant Guro Reiten cross gave manager Emma Hayes hope that she would end her glittering career at the club with one final trophy.

Chelsea, who have won the last four WSL titles, will say goodbye to Hayes at the end of the season when the 47-year-old takes over as head coach of the United States women's team after 12 years in West London.

Tottenham, still reeling from their 4-0 defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup final on Sunday, attempted a comeback in the second half but lacked a clinical edge in the final third.

Chelsea moved to the top of the table with 52 points, the same as second-placed Manchester City, but with a two-goal advantage over Gareth Taylor's side.

It all comes down to the final day on Saturday, when Chelsea travel to Old Trafford to face United and City play at Aston Villa. On paper, Chelsea's match appears more daunting, but United and Villa both have little to play for other than pride.

Hayes, who appeared to concede the title earlier this month before City slipped up at Arsenal last weekend, looked relieved after the final whistle at Brisbane Road.

"I think we have the tougher of the two games. We have to go to Old Trafford and it's a fitting finale for me, being my final game," Hayes told the BBC.

"As I said to the players if someone gives you a second chance in life, make sure you don't need a third one. We're in the position we want to be in, and we'll give it everything on Saturday no matter what."

After six league titles, five FA Cups, and two League Cups, Hayes suggested it was time to leave the club.

"I won't swear but I'm absolutely knackered," she said.

SportsLigue