This was the most hotly anticipated WSL fixture of the season and fans travelled across London, hearing the voices of Lionesses Greenwood and Lucy Bronze on the Underground public address system as they made their way to Stamford Bridge.

Bompastor was greeted by rival manager Taylor when the teams headed out of the tunnel before kick-off, and they embraced each other and shook hands.

That mark of respect was reciprocated by the players as both teams cancelled each other out initially, cautious not to take too many risks, knowing what was at stake in the title race.

They were too cautious at times with neither team creating any clear-cut chances, while England defenders Greenwood and Millie Bright did well to hold off Ramirez and Shaw respectively.

But as the match wore on, Ramirez got more involved and she eventually had her moment, getting the better of Kennedy and finding enough space to beat Greenwood inside City’s box and provide an accurate finish.

That sparked momentum for Chelsea and with the fans buoyed and in celebration, they increased the intensity, finding a quick second through Reiten to put the game to bed.

City, who saw off European champions Barcelona at home earlier this season, showed they could compete with Chelsea for much of the game but Hemp’s absence was notable.

Hemp, who leads the assists chart and chances created in the WSL this season, sat watching on in the stands alongside England manager Sarina Wiegman as her side struggled to provide Shaw with the service she needed.

It was a frustrating evening for the visitors, who were pipped to the WSL title by Chelsea on goal difference last season.

There remains a long way to go in the title race but Chelsea’s seamless transition under Bompastor, who took over from Emma Hayes in the summer, is a worrying sight for their rivals.