Chelsea climb to fourth with gritty win over Brighton
Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku on target as Blues battle to victory
Ten-man Chelsea held on to secure a hard-fought 3-2 win over Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon.
Goals from Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku either side of half-time put the Blues in control, but Brighton fought back through Marc Cucurella and Leandro Trossard.
Chelsea were reduced to 10 men when Trevoh Chalobah was sent off for a second bookable offence, but they held on to claim their fourth win of the season and move up to fourth in the Premier League table.
Brighton started the brighter of the two sides and had the first chance of the game when Trossard fired wide from the edge of the box.
Chelsea grew into the game and took the lead in the 22nd minute when Palmer fired home from close range after good work from Nkunku.
The Blues doubled their lead just before half-time when Nkunku tapped in from close range after a cross from Reece James.
Brighton pulled a goal back in the 55th minute when Cucurella headed home from a corner.
Trossard then equalised for the Seagulls in the 65th minute with a fine finish from the edge of the box.
Chelsea were reduced to 10 men in the 75th minute when Chalobah was sent off for a second bookable offence.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Blues held on to claim all three points.
Conclusion
Chelsea's victory over Brighton was a gritty and determined performance. Despite being reduced to 10 men, the Blues showed great character to hold on for the win. This victory will give Chelsea confidence going into their next game against Manchester United next weekend.
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