Are Chelsea back? Have Man Utd weathered early-season storm?

Laura Hunter's WSL column examines Chelsea's perfect run since opening day and Manchester United's early-season progress under Eva Olid.

Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the standout talking points from the sixth round of Women's Super League matches. Chelsea have made an impressive start to the season, sitting top of the table on goal difference after seven matches with a perfect record since their opening day draw with Aston Villa. Their 2-1 comeback win against Crystal Palace without key players Keira Walsh and Lauren James demonstrated manager Sonia Bompastor's squad depth and tactical flexibility, with the Blues also hosting Roma in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Chelsea lead the league in goals scored, chance creation and fewest goals conceded. Bompastor has finally implemented her vision of possession-based, progressive football, with full-backs Ellie Carpenter and Katie McCabe playing a crucial role in stretching play in attack and compacting defensively. Summer signing Melvine Malard has scored four goals in four starts, while contributions are coming from across the squad including Walsh and Sjoeke Nusken. While Manchester City remain favourites, Chelsea's consistency and attacking output suggest they are well-positioned to challenge for the title.