Chelsea fans, rejoice! Blues ended their losing run of three games and actually did it in style by destroying rock-bottom Southampton 4-0 at Stamford Bridge. With their top four ambitions slipping away just as quickly as a Chelsea counter attack in 2010, this was a win Enzo Maresca’s men desperately needed. Plus, who better to go against than Southampton who defend like they have made a New Year’s resolution to be generous?
Christopher Nkunku Kicks Things Off
Like an underdog in a boxing match, Southampton never play for long, but for 24 minutes they held out against the assault that now defines Chelsea. But eventually, the inevitable happened. Tosin Adarabioyo flicked the ball across goal from a corner caught his head from near the floor. Nkunku’s aim was spot on as that’s right—big things do come to those that wait and the good news was Nkunku has scored a first league goal since March.
Pedro Neto Continues His Hot Streak in Chelsea
Pedro Neto also grabbed his side’s second goal, which continues to make him Chelsea’s latest fan favourite at Stamford Bridge. Southampton carelessly played the ball to Chelsea and Nkunku displayed some silky footwork before setting up Neto. Like he was settling a personal grudge with the ball, Portuguese winger smashed it into the net.
Fun fact: That was Southampton’s 19th goal conceded from an error this season, six more than any other team. Southampton are winning gold at the Olympic errors.
Levi Colwill Seals It for Chelsea Before Half-Time
Chelsea two hit another blow, being down with halftime approaching. For the second time, Neto turned provider, floating in a delicious free kick into the box where Levi Colwill rose above everyone to nod it in. But at that point it was a Chelsea goal scoring exhibition.
Marc Cucurella Adds the Cherry on Top
The second half? A formality. Chelsea rolled through like a side which had already booked their celebrations after the game. Late on, young substitute Tyrique George was on hand to show great composure and found Marc Cucurella for a simple finish.
Elsewhere, Cole Palmer was picking out the corners looking to put his name on the scoresheet, only just unable to reach it. Despite notching yet another goal drought, Palmer is causing Chelsea fans to celebrate something: they are back in the top four.
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