Maika Hamano’s 37th-minute strike against Tottenham on Wednesday was enough for Chelsea to take charge of the Women’s Super League (WSL) title race.
With one game remaining, the reigning champions went top of the standings via goal difference forcing the challenge to be decided on the final day.
Chelsea have won the last four WSL titles, and a win against Manchester United on the final day of the season will secure a fifth consecutive title; a perfect way to say goodbye to manager Emma Hayes.
The revered coach would leave the London Club at the end of the season to take charge of the United States Women’s National team after 12 years in West London.
The win means Chelsea have now moved top of the standings on 52 points, the same as second-placed Manchester City but with a superior goal difference of two ahead of Gareth Taylor’s side.
Just like the Premier League, the two teams occupying the top two slots would have to wait until the final day on Saturday when Chelsea travel to Old Trafford to face United while City play at Aston Villa to know who becomes the winner of the WSL.
Hayes appeared to have conceded the title earlier this month before City slipped up at Arsenal last weekend and was a relieved woman after the full-time 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.
“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,” Hayes said.
Hayes will be leaving Chelsea after an illustrious time in charge; winning six league titles, five FA Cups and two League Cups Hayes and believes it is a good time to leave the club.
“I won’t swear but I’m absolutely knackered,” she added.
By Frank-Kamal Acheampong|3Sports|Onuaonline.com|Ghana
