'There's a title to be won' - Hayes puts Chelsea back in race for WSL

As Emma Hayes strolled through the Kingsmeadow passage for the final time, the tune of Tina Turner's 'Simply the Best' echoed throughout the stadium loudspeakers.

However, the leaving director didn't have any time to cry after her last game at home as the head of Chelsea.

The woman who is 47 years old admitted that she thought the Women's Super League title had already been won by Manchester City and could not be contested anymore since it had not been claimed since 2016.

Hayes and her team appeared disappointed and crestfallen following a surprising 4-3 loss to Liverpool. The players gathered closely and provided comfort to one another as they grieved over what appeared to be a season without any trophies.

However, things have changed for Chelsea following their tremendous victory against Bristol City with a score of 8-0 last Sunday. They have placed themselves back in the running for the title and have control of their fate.

Even though they're trailing Gareth Taylor's team by three points, they have an extra game to play. Nevertheless, their goal difference is now better than City's and has improved drastically.

As supporters and athletes assembled to witness Hayes' final address on home ground, the excitement from the resounding triumph over the Robins - who had already been relegated - was still surging.

At first, she couldn't say anything because a goodbye video was displayed on a huge screen. Hayes was there, embracing her son Harry, as she watched.

However, the difference between Wednesday night and now was quite noticeable, as Hayes passionately encouraged and motivated the audience through the microphone.

To put it plainly, it's not finished," she stated. "We can't afford to be emotional right now. We need to focus on our goal of winning the title, so all social gatherings involving alcohol are cancelled."

"And guess what? I learned something very valuable from that team of players this week - that you should never give up and that's what being a Chelsea player is all about."

Numerous players under Hayes' guidance have lauded her for her influence on their careers and personal growth. However, this week showcased how they were the ones who encouraged and supported her.

During her interviews after the match, Hayes displayed the assertive and passionate personality we have grown to appreciate throughout the years. It seemed like her motivation and determination were rekindled.

After Maren Mjelde and Fran Kirby left Kingsmeadow, they bid their farewells. Then, Hayes came onto the field to be introduced as the person who has contributed to the growth and success of the club. She has played a significant role in making it a strong and powerful team.

It was appropriate that the players delivered an excellent performance as they bid farewell to their departing coach at the stadium where she had achieved many victories throughout her career.

Hayes mentioned that they aimed to create a memorable game experience for the spectators.

It brings up a lot of feelings. For a significant part of my existence, I have been engaged in this activity. It has been where I reside and the people here are my loved ones. My offspring was brought into the world within these confines, yet I have also experienced my father's passing during the past year.

"This club has always meant everything to me. As I gaze at the crowd tonight, I can sense their admiration and passion for both our team and the game, and it's a feeling I've always yearned for."

If Manchester City had won against Arsenal and Bristol City had managed to prevent Chelsea from scoring, the WSL title would have been secured on Sunday evening.

During the match, City managed to secure a 1-0 lead, and with only a minute left until the end of the game, it seemed like they were going to take home all three points. However, Stina Blackstenius unleashed a thrilling and unexpected performance with two goals that resulted in Taylor's team losing out on the valuable points they had secured earlier.

Hayes was incredulous when he imagined the possibility of Arsenal clinching a win against City, coupled with a huge scoreline of 8-0, right from the start of the day. He wondered what the likelihood of such an outcome would be.

This demonstrates the importance of having faith. I advised our team that if Man City made a mistake, we needed to be prepared to seize the opportunity. Today presented another chance for us to come closer to achieving something that we were in danger of losing."

"I am extremely pleased. Today's events reflect everything that Chelsea stands for."

If Chelsea secures a victory over Tottenham on May 15th, it seems like there may be yet another thrilling final day of the season.

Although the idea of achieving four wins may no longer be possible, Hayes could still lead Chelsea to another championship before leaving for the United States. Her determination and passion make it unwise to dismiss her potential success.