Aston Villa manager Carla Ward branded Sam Kerr as “the best in the world” as the Australian superstar fired a lacklustre Chelsea into the Women’s FA Cup Final.
Kerr’s goal in the 59th minute was all the difference as the Blues will now face Manchester United for the trophy.
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The 29-year-old showed her remarkable instincts for the winner in what was her fifth Women’s FA Cup goal.
Chelsea midfielder Jelena Cankovic turned her Villa marker inside-out inside the box before she cut back and played in Guro Reiten on the left flank.
The Norwegian winger floated a perfect ball to the back post where Kerr, who had nipped in between Villa’s centre backs, rose highest to nod home past Hannah Hampton.
Despite Villa huffing and puffing before and after Kerr’s goal, they were unable to find a way past Zecira Musovic as right back Sarah Mayling came closest when she struck the post.
The win propelled Chelsea into their third-straight Women’s FA Cup final and sixth in the last nine seasons.
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Ward was left marvelling at Kerr’s efforts as she continues to score for club and country.
“A world class player has come up with a big, big moment,” Ward said.
“They have one big moment and there she is and that’s what she does best and that’s why she’s the best in the world.”
Chelsea boss Emma Hayes was equally delighted at her superstar’s efforts in securing the winner.
“I’ve never seen a centre forward move as much as her,” Hayes said.
“She’s a nightmare to defend. Her energy levels, it’s like she’s a 12-year-old, it’s infectious, but her qualities, that’s her ability.
“I don’t know a striker in world football that can do what she does, she’s the best.”
Chelsea’s Women’s FA Cup Final clash against Manchester United will take place on May 14.