Vicky Jepson’s side gave a really good account of themselves at Kingsmeadow with captain Sophie Bradley-Auckland a real inspiration at the back, and it took a stunning goal from Magdalena Erisson to give the reigning champions all three points.
The Reds were without talented winger Niamh Charles, but started brightly and Kirsty Linnett went close on eight minutes when she drilled an effort narrowly wide after a sweet turn just outside the box.
On 12 minutes only a brilliant goal-line clearance from Bradley-Auckland denied Chelsea the opening goal after Fran Kirby had set up Drew Spence.
The home side continued to take the game to Liverpool and went so close to the opening goal when Bethany England found Kirby in the penalty area, but after a sharp turn the England international fired an effort just over the bar.