Lowly Norwich United visited Writtle College for Sunday's game as City were looking to extend their unbeaten run.

Chelmsford took the lead after five minutes. Good work by Angelina Robinson and Lisa Blundell put Sarah Gammon free, and she cut in before firing home a powerful shot.

Five minutes later, it was 2-0 when Debbie Watts provided a pass for Paula Drane, who opened her account for the afternoon.

City's third goal came after Drane laid the ball off to Julie Purdon whose flick found the net.

City extended their lead on 20 minutes with Drane cutting in and rifling a shot into the net.

Six minutes later, Drane marginally beat the goalkeeper to a through pass but was brought down and the penalty was converted by Watts.

Soon after the start of the second half, Ramos found Drane and the latter buried her shot into the net.

City's seventh goal arrived on 50 minutes when Drane nipped in to tuck the ball home.

Gammon netted her second goal on 56 minutes, following a goalmouth scramble.

Chelmsford completed the rout in the 70th minute after Drane turned on the edge of the penalty area, and her shot gave the goalkeeper no chance.

Norwich netted a consolation goal in the final minute but a superb all round performance by City was rewarded with the news that their rivals at the top of the table had lost.

This puts City in a strong position for the title and a place in the play-offs for a place in the National League, South East Combination.

Chelmsford City: Bridgeman, Marshall, Emmerson, Watts, Blundell, Robinson, Garner, Ramos (Hunt), Drane, Purdon and Gammon.

City Reserves thrashed Colchester United Reserves 13-0 in Sunday's Essex County League encounter at Writtle College, City's goals being netted by Emma Ridings (4), Marianne Gibson (3), Carly Webb (2), Natalie Paul, Faye Hodge, Claire Lodge and Mari Poulter.

On Sunday cup holders City are away to National League side Barking in the semi final of the Essex County Cup at Leyton Pennant Football Club (kick off 1.30pm).

Meanwhile, City Under 13's travel to play Brentwood Town.

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