Sam Kerr received a hero’s welcome from Chelsea fans as she made her long-awaited home return in the Women’s Super League, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over Leicester City at Kingsmeadow.
The Matildas striker, who had been sidelined for nearly two years with a serious knee injury, entered the game in the 69th minute to a standing ovation. Though she didn’t find the net, her presence alone electrified the crowd in what was her first home appearance in 21 months.
Kerr had already marked her comeback the previous week in style, scoring her 100th goal for Chelsea after coming on as a substitute in a 3-1 win over Aston Villa. Against Leicester, Aggie Beever-Jones’ early strike proved decisive, with the youngster almost setting up Kerr for another chance late on.
Fans showed their support with tributes and signs, and Kerr even featured on the cover of the matchday program. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor praised her determination but cautioned that patience is still needed.
“Sam is like a new person — the tough months are behind her,” Bompastor said. “She’s one of those players people come to the stadium just to watch. But we still need to take it slow. She’s working hard, she’s excited, and we have to protect her as she builds her way back.”
The win keeps Chelsea two points clear at the top of the table with a perfect start of three wins from three, ahead of Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham. United and Arsenal cancelled each other out in a goalless draw, with Matildas stars Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord starting for the Gunners.
