Carney strikes as Chelsea Ladies win opener

Karen Carney scored on her debut as Chelsea Ladies began their Women’s FA Cup defence with a 4-1 victory over Women’s Super League newcomers Doncaster Rovers Belles.

The Blues trailed 1-0 early on but were level at the break and ended an open fifth-round tie as comfortable winners thanks to three goals in a clinical 15-minute second-half spell.

Jess Sigsworth scored for the hosts inside six minutes after a fine run, only for Leandra Little’s headed own goal to draw Chelsea level.

And last season’s WSL and Women’s FA Cup winners dominated thereafter.

Ji So-Yun and Gemma Davidson both went close before the interval but the second goal did not arrival until England winger Carney’s calm lob.

The close-season signing from Birmingham then teed up Ji to make it 3-1, and Eni Aluko’s strike sealed victory.

Chelsea Ladies begin their WSL season on Thursday, returning to Doncaster to face the same opposition.