Cole Palmer delivered a sensational performance, becoming the first player to score four first-half goals in a Premier League match as Chelsea cruised to a dominant victory over Brighton, propelling them to third place in the table.
In an electrifying encounter at Stamford Bridge, the 22-year-old Palmer ran riot against Brighton’s high defensive line, which left them vulnerable to Chelsea’s rapid attacking play. The visitors also found the back of the net twice early on, capitalizing on errors from Chelsea’s former Brighton goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, but the spotlight firmly belonged to Palmer.
Georginio Rutter’s header had initially put Brighton ahead, but Palmer quickly took control. After hitting the post and having a goal ruled out for offside within a short span, Palmer finally opened the scoring from a Nicolas Jackson pass, marking the start of his incredible first-half display.
The England international netted his second goal from the penalty spot after Jadon Sancho was fouled in the box, keeping his perfect penalty record for Chelsea intact. Palmer then completed his hat-trick with a stunning 25-yard free-kick that soared into the top corner, sending the Stamford Bridge crowd into a frenzy.
His fourth goal came courtesy of another Sancho assist, striking after Brighton had briefly clawed back some hope through Carlos Baleba, who capitalized on a poor pass from Sanchez.
Despite Brighton’s persistence and refusal to adjust their high-risk approach, they were unable to contain Palmer and Chelsea’s relentless attack. Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton’s young manager, suffered his first defeat, with his side’s defensive naivety proving costly.
The second half saw far less drama, although Palmer had an opportunity to add a fifth goal but missed the target. Nonetheless, Chelsea’s dominant first-half display secured a resounding victory, following on from their recent thrashing of Wolves.
SOURCE: https://dew360.net
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