Chelsea began Xabi Alonso’s reign with a 3-2 victory over Fulham, as debutant Morgan Rogers scored and Cole Palmer produced another influential performance in a thrilling Premier League contest.
The visitors made history by scoring the earliest goal of a Premier League season. Joao Pedro found the net after only 35 seconds, running on to Palmer’s through-ball before finishing to give Chelsea an immediate lead.
Fulham were unable to settle after the early setback, while Palmer continued to pose a threat in a Chelsea attack that looked sharp and inventive. The England forward was involved again when the visitors doubled their advantage, with Maxence Lacroix’s low cross allowing Rogers to score a simple tap-in on his Chelsea debut.
Palmer had already gone close on two occasions before adding Chelsea’s third. Joao Pedro supplied the pass and Palmer managed to force his effort through the legs of Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno, restoring the visitors’ two-goal cushion.
It was a display that suggested Palmer is ready to play a central role in Alonso’s plans after a difficult period involving England. His performance appeared to underline his determination to make an impression after he was left out of England’s World Cup squad.
Chelsea’s attacking play was a major positive for Alonso in his first match as manager, but the team’s defensive weaknesses will concern him. Fulham were able to exploit mistakes at the back and twice found a way through a Chelsea side that looked far less secure without the ball.
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was beaten at his near post by Josh King, whose powerful drive reduced the deficit. Sanchez then pushed Timothy Castagne’s effort directly into the path of another debutant, Gonzalo Garcia, who finished to keep the hosts in the contest.
Despite Fulham’s response, Chelsea held on to claim all three points in a match that offered an entertaining introduction to Alonso’s tenure. The result also highlighted both the promise and the problems facing the new manager.
Chelsea are expected to make further changes during the coming week. If the club are to mount a serious challenge for the title, strengthening the goalkeeper and defensive areas will be necessary.
However, their attacking quality was clear at Craven Cottage. With Palmer in form, Joao Pedro contributing a goal and an assist, and Rogers marking his debut with a goal, Chelsea already look capable of being among the most entertaining teams in the Premier League this season.
