Head coach Rehanne Skinner addressed the media ahead of West Ham United’s WSL clash with Chelsea, offering a clear assessment of where her team stands and what will be required in one of the toughest fixtures of the season.
Speaking from Chadwell Heath, Skinner’s tone was optimistic, with an emphasis on consistency, discipline, and mental resilience. One of the key themes Skinner returned to throughout the press conference was the importance of producing a complete performance.She stressed that the team must be fully engaged and switched on for all 90 minutes, not just in spells. For Skinner, lapses in concentration have cost West Ham dearly in recent weeks, and she made clear that against a side of Chelsea’s calibre, such mistakes will almost certainly be punished.
Skinner also spoke with respect about the opposition, acknowledging Chelsea’s quality and the depth of their squad. However, she insisted her players have the tools to compete if they stick to their plan. She highlighted the need for pragmatism, discipline, and the ability to take chances when they come, making it clear that belief in her own side remains strong despite the challenge ahead.
In terms of tactics, Skinner suggested that preparation has centred on both limiting Chelsea’s strengths and finding opportunities to exploit weaknesses. She highlighted the importance of defensive organisation and controlling transitions, indicating that West Ham are likely to focus on structure and game management while looking to strike effectively when opportunities present themselves.
Another strong point of emphasis was the mental approach to the match. Skinner underlined the importance of resilience, urging her players to maintain belief and composure even if setbacks occur during the game. For her, the mental side of the contest will be just as significant as the tactical one, especially in a high-profile fixture where pressure and intensity are at their peak.
Looking ahead to the match, West Ham are expected to prioritise defensive solidity while working tirelessly as a unit across the pitch. Their approach is likely to involve absorbing pressure and hitting on the counter, rather than attempting to dominate possession. Above all, Skinner has called for mental toughness, reminding her squad that how they respond to difficult moments will be just as telling as the result itself.
Ultimately, Skinner’s message was one of cautious optimism. She recognises the scale of the challenge posed by Chelsea but sees this fixture as a chance to measure her side’s growth, both in terms of maturity and unity. For West Ham, the upcoming contest will be about more than the scoreline; it will be a test of attitude, nerve, and the progress they are making under Skinner’s guidance.
Closing her remarks, Skinner summed up her expectations simply: “We know how tough this game will be, but it’s also an opportunity to show how far we’ve come. If we stay together, stay focused, and keep believing, we can make it a really competitive contest.”
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