Courtney Brosnan was in inspired form on Sunday afternoon as she produced a string of good saves at Dagenham & Redbridge Stadium.
The Irish international was given a start between the posts after an injury to Mackenzie Arnold in training building up to the match and was more than equal to almost all of the efforts that league leaders Chelsea threw at the Hammers' goal.
“You train everyday as a goalkeeper to be prepared just in case you're called upon. I felt ready to go when the situation arose.
“I’ve been working really hard every day with Billy Stewart and Mackenzie Arnold - they’re great to work with. Sometimes you don’t get your chance but when it comes you have to be ready and play your part for the team, so I tried to do that today.”
This was Brosnan’s first league start of the campaign, and the ‘keeper was on her toes to deny the Blues on a number of occasions. From her view watching over her side, she was pleased with the improvement shown since their previous outing against Emma Hayes’ side.
This league is one of the best in the world so you know you’re going to come up against top quality players. Chelsea are one of the best teams in the world and certainly kept us busy today
“We’ve had a little bit of a break because of the international fixtures and wanted to keep building and keep improving every day, which is what we’ve been able to do during the time without a game.
“There was a huge improvement in our performance if you compare it to the last match against Chelsea which is pleasing – everyone is obviously disappointed with the result but we’re happy with the improvement we’ve made,” Brosnan added.
One save in particular, a flying tip over the bar to deny a close range strike from Guro Reiten, was the pick of the bunch.
“Instincts took over if I’m honest,” the 25-year-old said. “I threw myself in the direction of the ball and hoped for the best and thankfully managed to get a hand to it and could tip it over the bar, which felt pretty good.
“This league is one of the best in the world so you know you’re going to come up against top quality players. Chelsea are one of the best teams in the world and certainly kept us busy.”
The Hammers now look to take the positives from the defeat into a crucial clash against Birmingham City at Dagenham & Redbridge Stadium next Wednesday.
“We’ve got to keep working hard, taking things day by day. We had some good moments and chances today, so hopefully we can build on that and find some end product against Birmingham.
“We need to make sure we build on this afternoon’s performance,” she said.
