Emma Hayes: on a roll and playing to win

Published: 9 April, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

CHELSEA Ladies manager Emma Hayes has warned that “winning is becoming a habit” for her side ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final showdown against London rivals Arsenal. 

The former Parliament Hill schoolgirl saw the Blues make it three wins from three in all competitions on Thursday with a convincing win over Bristol Academy in the Women’s Super League. 

Next up this Sunday is a capital clash against cup holders Arsenal, and Hayes is confident that as far as her team is concerned, the best is yet to come. “We know we can do better still,” she said.

“I felt the performance levels dropped a little in the second half against Bristol so I’m a bit disappointed with that. But overall, I’m pleased, especially with another clean sheet.” 

Hayes, who assisted Vic Akers in Arsenal Ladies’ Quadruple winning season of 2007, also praised the Chelsea attack after two goals from Drew Spence, and strikes from Ji Yo-Sun and Gemma Davison saw the Blues run out 4-0 winners over Bristol.

“We have spoken about how we’re going to need a number of goalscorers this season so it’s nice to see three different names on the score sheet.” 

Arsenal manager Pedro Martinez Losa has called for patience after his side started their league campaign with a 1-1 draw at Notts County.

“We need to give our young players all the credit,” he said. “We can’t create a drama because we played bad or made a mistake. 

“The Arsenal way for the future is to give confidence to the young players and to be patient with them.”