Ladies's Tremendous League: Chelsea 3-1 Manchester Metropolis - Mjelde, Kerr & Kirby earn win

Maren Mjelde's controversial first-half penalty set reigning Women's Super League champions Chelsea on their way to victory in a lively tussle with last season's runners-up Manchester City.

But fortunate as their opener was, Chelsea dominated the second half.

Sam Kerr tapped in a second and, after Chloe Kelly's penalty gave City hope, Kirby's composed finish made it 3-1.

England striker Kirby, playing wide on the right, was the standout performer in a stylish win that extends Chelsea's unbeaten WSL run to 25 games and takes them up to third in the table after four games.

A thrilling first league meeting between the two sides this season went the same way as Chelsea's 2-0 Community Shield success in August.

City, who are fifth in the table following their first loss of the season, will feel hard done by following the spot-kick, which also saw White cautioned.

Kirby shines in wide role

Kirby was at her relentless best, teeing up numerous chances with a combination of direct running, pace and wonderful vision.

The Blues edged a tight first period, with Pernille Harder crowded out by Lucy Bronze when well placed and Kerr blasting a half-volley over the bar, while City's best chance saw USA midfielder Sam Mewis' shot strike the bottom of the post.

Mjelde's calmly side-footed penalty gave the hosts the chance to defend deeper and utilise their pace on the break and they made the most of it.

Chelsea seized control as Erin Cuthbert came close to doubling the lead with a fierce low strike that went a fraction wide, while Kerr twice wasted wonderful opportunities from Kirby passes from the right.

The impressive Cuthbert was then also guilty of some wayward finishing, blasting the ball over as she raced through on goal.

But the pressure told when Kerr's radar returned from yet another Kirby pass, this time the Australian netting from close range.

Millie Bright's handball enabled City to get on the scoresheet inside the final 20 minutes.

Kirby settled the nerves in the closing stages, however, rounding Ellie Roebuck and slotting the ball home.