They are saying every week is a very long time in soccer, by no means thoughts 99 of them.
Sam Kerr is aware of that every one too effectively, as her 692-day wait to start out a match for Chelsea got here to an finish on Tuesday.
After scoring in her aspect’s 3-1 Champions League victory towards BK Hacken on 20 December 2023, Kerr’s profession was rocked by damage.
An anterior cruciate ligament damage sustained throughout a warm-weather coaching camp in January 2024, adopted by a number of setbacks, stored her out of aggressive motion till September this 12 months.
After scoring twice in 9 substitute appearances this season, Kerr made essentially the most of her first begin with two beautifully taken targets in Chelsea’s 6-0 Champions League thrashing of Austrian side St Polten.
“It feels good. It felt like I needed to work myself into it however yeah, pleased to attain,” Kerr informed Disney+.
“In fact, I favor to play extra minutes. Whenever you come on for 20 minutes it is a bit hectic, there’s a lot of subs and it may be a bit wishy-washy. I really feel like right now was good.
“I had a couple of probabilities within the first half. I am simply pleased to be again out right here taking part in within the Champions League once more, with an incredible staff. I am relishing each second.”
For some time it regarded prefer it simply would not be Kerr’s night time.
She could have began two friendlies for Australia final month however her sharpness remains to be coming again and, within the first half, missed three probabilities she can be anticipated to take.
Her wayward ending continued when she blazed over early within the second half, whereas her poorly timed run led to team-mate Naomi Girma’s first-half header being dominated out for offside.
Then emerged the Kerr Europe’s defenders hoped they may not see once more.
An outstanding first contact from Wieke Kaptein’s cross obtained the ball out of her ft, earlier than a sweeping right-foot strike left goalkeeper Carina Schluter helpless.
For her second, Kerr dropped again off the defensive position into area, adjusted to fulfill the flight of Niamh Charles’ cross and planted a header excessive into the web.
“It feels a bit sweeter but it surely feels a bit bizarre,” Kerr mentioned on whether or not the sensation of scoring has modified after her damage.
“I did not rating for thus lengthy that I used to be like I have not celebrated, actually. I have not obtained that celebration factor but. I’ve obtained to attain a couple of extra.”
Subsequent Kerr will goal a primary WSL begin since 17 December 2023. With Aggie Beever-Jones lacking the final two video games with a useless leg, it may come towards Liverpool on Sunday.
“I really feel 100% however I used to be out for some time, so I’ve to construct myself up,” Kerr mentioned.
“Right this moment was an excellent set, proper? Getting some good minutes within the nationwide staff was an excellent set. I am undoubtedly match sufficient, it is nearly getting miles within the legs now. I am able to go.”
