Palmer’s Impressive Performance Leaves Chelsea Fans Awestruck Amid Sterling Worries
Chelsea claimed a crucial victory against Newcastle, with Cole Palmer stealing the show. The Blues took an early lead thanks to a fantastic flick from Nicolas Jackson off Palmer’s low drive. However, Mauricio Pochettino’s side appeared sluggish after scoring, allowing Newcastle to dominate for long periods of the match. Alexander Isak leveled the scores just before halftime with a finesse finish from the edge of the box. But it was Palmer who once again rose to the occasion, scoring a left-footed effort inside the near post for his 19th goal contribution of the season. Mykhailo Mudryk added to the misery for Newcastle as he rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home. In the 90th minute, Jacob Murphy scored a stunner, but it was only a consolation for the Magpies.
Player Ratings:
DJORDJE PETROVIC – 6/10
Petrovic showed excellent composure on the ball and demonstrated more quality than in recent weeks. He closed down attackers effectively and commanded his area well. However, he couldn’t prevent Isak’s excellently placed finish or Murphy’s consolation goal.
MARC CUCURELLA – 6
Cucurella stepped into tackles brilliantly and looked comfortable going forward and backward. Although he was fortunate not to be booked, it was a solid return to the side after an injury spell.
TREVOH CHALOBAH – 6
Chalobah received praise from the press box until he was caught out of position, allowing Isak to equalize. Despite looking a little rusty after returning from injury, he had a decent showing.
AXEL DISASI – 7
Disasi celebrated his 26th birthday with a strong performance at the back. He made no real mistakes and was particularly good on the ball when playing out from the back. However, he couldn’t keep a clean sheet.
MALO GUSTO – 8
Gusto was brilliant on the ball for most of the game and posed a threat going forward. He was caught in possession for Newcastle’s equalizer but remained strong defensively.
ENZO FERNANDEZ – 6
Fernandez had good moments passing-wise and provided a neat ball to Palmer for his first assist of the season. He played a role similar to Jorginho’s regista position, impressing with his passing ability.
MOISES CAICEDO – 7
Caicedo injected some much-needed aggression into Chelsea’s midfield and broke up play effectively. However, he was not at his best on the ball. In the second half, he improved significantly and resorted to some good professional fouls, resulting in a booking.
CONOR GALLAGHER – 7
Gallagher was lively in the No. 10 role, showing tenacity in tackles and driving his team forward with relentless pressing and energy. He delivered a performance worthy of a captain.
COLE PALMER – 9
Palmer was the standout player of the match. He provided an exquisite flick for Jackson’s goal and continued to be a threat in the second half. His left-footed strike left the goalkeeper in awe and secured his 19th goal contribution of the season. This achievement surpasses Arjen Robben’s record for the most goal contributions in a season by a player younger than 21 for Chelsea.
RAHEEM STERLING – 5
Sterling failed to make a significant impact on the game, struggling against Tino Livramento on the left-hand side. He was booked for a late challenge and missed an opportunity to pass to Palmer when the scores were level.
NICOLAS JACKSON – 8
Jackson started brightly with a gorgeous backheel flick to give Chelsea the lead. He worked tirelessly throughout the game, displaying excellent on-the-ball ability. Although he had a goal ruled out for offside, it was an impressive performance.
Substitutions:
MYKHAILO MUDRYK (FOR STERLING, 71) – 8
Mudryk made an immediate impact, scoring a fantastic goal just five minutes after coming on. He looked more dangerous than Sterling and showcased his quality.
CESARE CASADEI (FOR PALMER, 86) – 6
Casadei had limited time to make an impact but displayed strength in the air and composure on the ball when given the opportunity.
CARNEY CHUKWUEMEKA (FOR JACKSON, 90) – 6
Similar to Casadei, Chukwuemeka had little time to make a difference. However, he played a nice ball into Mudryk and held up the play well in the false nine role.
Conclusion:
In a thrilling match, Cole Palmer stole the spotlight with his impressive performance, leaving Chelsea fans in awe. His goal contribution record for the season surpassed Arjen Robben’s previous achievement. Despite concerns about Raheem Sterling’s performance, Chelsea secured all three points against Newcastle. The team showed moments of brilliance, but also areas for improvement. Overall, it was an entertaining clash that showcased both individual talent and team efforts.