Chelsea’s losing streak came to an end in the home game against bottom-of-the-league Southampton. The Blues won comfortably – even without Palmer scoring again.
The 1-2 defeat at Aston Villa was already the third consecutive defeat in competitive games for the Blues, with coach Enzo Maresca fielding more attacking personnel against bottom-of-the-league Southampton. While Adarabioyo replaced the injured Chalobah in the back four, Sancho started instead of James (bench).
Maresca’s more offensive approach proved to be the right one in the long run, but the guests were responsible for the first conclusion. Striker Onuachu had shot over from a half-right position (15th), after which the end of the Saints’ three-game losing streak was to recede into the distance.
After goalkeeper Ramsdale had prevented the deficit in a one-on-one with Palmer (23rd), the subsequent corner finally resulted in a 1-0 lead for the home side. Adarabioyo extended to Nkunku, who headed the ball in at the second post (24th).
Southampton did not give up yet, but Onuachu was stopped by a strong save from Jörgensen (32′). Four minutes later, the Saints made life difficult for themselves when Pedro Neto made a bad pass from Downes, allowing the Blues to score their second goal.
Colwill scores for the first time – Palmer unlucky
Chelsea now had the game completely under control, and from time to time it looked like a training game when viewed from the outside. It was therefore fitting that Colwill headed in a free-kick from Pedro Neto just before half-time (44′): it was the centre-back’s first goal of the season.
The West Londoners’ offensive line continued to play enthusiastically after the break, but failed to take advantage of further good opportunities. In particular, Palmer, who has not scored in seven games, often lacked a bit of luck in the final third. The left-footer missed the 4-0 opportunity in both the 54th and 56th minutes.
Cucurella puts the final point
The home side went into the final phase no longer quite as determined, but still dominant. When it became dangerous again, it was mostly through the substitute 19-year-old George, who only just missed his first goal in the 70th minute. Eight minutes later, he did better in the role of the preparer, because Cucurella scored after the youngster’s assist.
With the clear lead behind them, Maresca took the opportunity to give two talents their Premier League debuts. In addition to 19-year-old Amougou, Mheuka, who is two years younger, also made his debut in the English top flight.
Chelsea, who face Copenhagen away in the first leg of the Conference League last 16 on Thursday evening (6:45 p.m.), have at least temporarily climbed to fourth place in the table. Southampton, who remain bottom of the league, are visiting league leaders Liverpool on Saturday (4 p.m.).
