CHELSEA returned to form with a 3-0 win at Brighton to move back up to second in the Women’s Super League table today.

The Blues, who saw their 34-game unbeaten league run end last week with a 1-0 defeat by Everton, went ahead through a fine finish from Sandy Baltimore just before half-time.

An own goal from Brighton defender Caitlin Hayes doubled the lead early in the second half, with Alyssa Thompson sweeping in a late third as Sonia Bompastor’s side put themselves back above Arsenal and six points behind leaders Manchester City heading into the international break.

Chelsea had made a positive start at Broadfield Stadium and almost took an early lead when Keira Walsh’s shot came back off the woodwork.

Brighton keeper Sophie Baggaley then made a fine reaction save to tip over Baltimore’s effort at the far post after a floated ball across the box from Ellie Carpenter.

Chelsea broke the deadlock two minutes before half-time.

Baltimore exchanged passes with Thompson and set away down the left towards the Brighton box before cutting back inside and clipping a fine strike into the top corner.

The Blues doubled their lead early in the 52nd minute.

Erin Cuthbert floated over a cross from the right and as Hayes dived to try to head the ball clear, she nodded it up into the top corner.

Chelsea made sure of the points with a third goal in the 73rd minute.

Baltimore’s throw-in down the line sent substitute Sam Kerr away on the left, and her cut-back was slotted in first time by Thompson.