Cuthbert then added a late second with a fine finish from the edge of the box.

"The number of goals Erin gets is not enough for the chances she gets. That's her next challenge," said Hayes.

"She is a brilliant character, a warrior who has everything in her game."

After Scot Cuthbert's match-winning display, Hayes added: "She is a brilliant character, a warrior who has everything in her game."

West Ham failed to get a shot on target in response as their five-game unbeaten league run came to an end.

Chelsea's second victory against the Hammers in seven days - having got past their London rivals in the quarter-finals of the Women's Continental League Cup last week - sees them move to within a point of leaders Arsenal.

The Gunners, however, can restore their four-point lead at the summit if they beat Brighton on Thursday.

Chelsea had slipped to third place following Sunday's goalless draw against Brighton and were again frustrated in the first half against the Hammers.

Sophie Ingle saw a misdirected cross come off the top of the bar for the hosts while West Ham goalkeeper Leat made a fine reflex save to deny Pernille Harder before the break.

England made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, reacting quickest in the 51st minute to score her 50th WSL goal when Leat failed to control her save from a fierce 20-yard Cuthbert shot.

The excellent Cuthbert then got a deserved second for the league champions eight minutes from time, linking up with Fran Kirby on the edge of the area before sending a dipping effort beyond the keeper.

Hayes said her side "deserved to win the game" and was pleased in the manner they eventually achieved it.

"I am just happy we scored scrappy goals," she added.

"I have the team who want to score the most delightful goals, we want to walk the ball into the net. We don't score enough goals for what we create.

"The reality is we needed that goal from Beth, her response to coming on was great."