Chelsea defended the first of their three domestic titles with victory over Manchester United in the Women’s League Cup.
It was a crushing blow for United, who have now lost three finals to Chelsea, having also been beaten twice in the FA Cup showpiece.
England international Lauren James capitalised on an error from defender Dominique Janssen and celebrated her no-look finish with a nonchalant cupping of her ear towards the fans of her former club United.
She was a standout performer in the first half as Chelsea dominated possession but were troubled by United on occasions.
Elisabeth Terland hit the crossbar and Ellen Wangerheim missed a huge chance at the near post, before Aggie Beever-Jones eventually made it 2-0 to Chelsea.
Victory helps silence Chelsea’s critics, who have grown louder throughout the campaign, as they have fallen behind in the Women’s Super League title race.
It is manager Sonia Bompastor’s fourth trophy since joining the club last year, having led Chelsea to an unbeaten domestic treble last season.
However, it was not the perfect afternoon in Bristol for the Blues as defender Nathalie Bjorn – making a comeback as a substitute after three months out injured – had to be replaced herself five minutes later due to another injury.
She left the pitch in tears, consoled by Bompastor and United defender Gabby George, but her side responded on the pitch to complete the job.