Alonso era begins in style as Chelsea edge Fulham 3-2 in thriller
LONDON - Chelsea launched the Xabi Alonso era in spectacular fashion on Monday, holding off a spirited Fulham comeback to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory in the Premier League, with Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers all finding the net.
Chelsea needed just 31 seconds to make their mark as Palmer released Joao Pedro, who produced a deft finish over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. The strike was the fastest goal scored on the opening weekend in the 34-year history of the Premier League. Fulham gradually recovered from the early setback and levelled in the 24th minute when Josh King beat Robert Sanchez at his near post, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.
Chelsea, however, restored their advantage shortly before half-time. New signing Maxence Lacroix surged down the right before delivering a precise cutback for Rogers, who calmly finished to put the visitors 2-1 ahead in the 41st minute. Palmer then extended Chelsea’s lead four minutes after the restart. Joao Pedro held up possession before finding the England midfielder, who drilled his effort through Leno’s legs to make it 3-1.
The goal capped a promising return to form for Palmer, who endured an injury-hit campaign last season and subsequently missed England’s World Cup squad. “It was a difficult season with injuries and whatnot, but through the summer and since I’ve been back I’ve worked extra hard,” Palmer told Sky Sports.
Fulham refused to surrender and reduced the deficit in the 54th minute through Gonzalo Garcia. Making his league debut following his move from Real Madrid, Garcia reacted quickest after Sanchez parried Timothy Castagne’s effort and headed home. The hosts pushed hard for an equaliser and came agonisingly close in the 78th minute when Antonee Robinson attempted to lift the ball over the advancing Sanchez, only to see his effort drift wide.
Chelsea ultimately held firm to give Alonso a winning start in his first competitive match since taking charge at Stamford Bridge. The victory came at the expense of Fulham coach Alvaro Arbeloa, Alonso’s former Liverpool and Spain teammate, who was also making his Premier League coaching debut. Arbeloa had briefly succeeded Alonso as Real Madrid manager last season.
Chelsea will hope the return of injured midfielder Moises Caicedo and new full-back Marco Palestra will add further defensive solidity, while goalkeeper Sanchez could face competition from Mike Penders following the latter’s return from sister club Racing Strasbourg. The result nevertheless provided Alonso with an ideal beginning as Chelsea look to build momentum under their new manager.