Aston Villa Hold Chelsea After Late Buurman Own Goal

Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge after a late own goal undid the home side's dominance in their Women's Super League meeting on Saturday. Lauren James put Chelsea ahead in the 11th minute, but Veerle Buurman's own goal in the 79th gave Villa a point.

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The Guardian reported that Chelsea had 64 percent of possession and produced 32 shots to Villa's seven. The home team also recorded 57 touches in the opposition penalty area, compared with five for Villa, but could not turn that control into a decisive second goal. The match was played before 7,900 spectators as Chelsea began a season in which Stamford Bridge is scheduled to host all their WSL home fixtures.

Chelsea's opener followed pressure on Villa's attempt to play out from the back. A loose ball was collected by Ellie Carpenter, who moved it to James. The forward advanced into the penalty area and drove her finish into the roof of the net. Chelsea continued to press aggressively, while Villa gradually became more settled toward the end of the first half.

Villa, who started five of their eight new signings, stayed within one goal largely through goalkeeper Akane Okuma. The summer arrival from INAC Kobe Lionesses made a series of saves, including one to turn away a Carpenter effort shortly after the hour. Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones later headed into the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

The equalizer came when Chelsea failed to clear a cross from Lynn Wilms. Noelle Maritz directed a shot toward goal from close range, goalkeeper Hannah Hampton blocked it, and the ball rebounded off Buurman before crossing the line. The own goal changed a contest in which Villa had spent long periods defending.

Chelsea pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but Okuma denied another James attempt with a late block and Villa preserved the draw. The result gave each team one point, with Chelsea left to reflect on a large advantage in chances that did not produce a victory.