Scotland star Cuthbert wins sixth league title in a row
It was veteran Lucy Bronze who eventually netted the winner, with her glancing header from Sandy Baltimore's corner 16 minutes from time finally breaking the deadlock and sparking wild celebrations.
With Arsenal having suffered a shock loss to Aston Villa earlier in the evening, Chelsea knew a win would wrap up their eighth league title in ten seasons – and their first under new boss Sonia Bompastor. But with Champions League-chasing United in no mood to lie down, it was anything but straightforward.
Cuthbert, now a cornerstone of this all-conquering Chelsea side, typified the Blues' gritty resolve and attacking intent throughout. The 26-year-old came close to scoring in the first half and was constantly involved in linking play and driving her team forward – earning praise once again from fans north and south of the border.
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Her relentless drive helped Chelsea gradually take control after a nervy start, in which they lost striker Mayra Ramirez to injury after just 27 minutes and relied on goalkeeper Hannah Hampton to deny United's Melvine Malard and Grace Clinton.
Despite the pressure, Chelsea remained composed – with Cuthbert, Niamh Charles and Millie Bright all going close before the break. The match remained finely poised into the second half, with both sides fashioning chances, but it was the visitors who struck when it mattered.
Bronze, no stranger to title triumphs herself throughout a glittering career that includes Manchester City, Lyon, and Barcelona, rose highest to guide the ball home and effectively seal the trophy, with Chelsea moving nine points clear at the top and just two games remaining.
For Cuthbert – who has already lifted multiple domestic trophies in England and played a key role in Scotland's qualification for the 2019 World Cup – this was yet another milestone in a stellar career that continues to fly the flag for Scottish football at the highest level.
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