Chelsea Beat Fulham in Alonso’s First Big Test
Chelsea began the Xabi Alonso era with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Fulham as the new manager received an early taste of Premier League pressure.
The match produced goals, drama and an impressive attacking performance from Chelsea’s front three.
Joao Pedro strikes after 31 seconds
Chelsea needed only 31 seconds to open the scoring.
Joao Pedro immediately put Fulham under pressure and gave the home side the perfect start.
The early goal helped Chelsea settle into the match and provided an immediate boost for Alonso.
Cole Palmer shines
Cole Palmer was again at the centre of Chelsea’s attacking performance.
The England international continues to be one of the club’s most important players and showed his ability to influence a match in the final third.
His understanding with Chelsea’s other attacking players will be one of the key elements of Alonso’s project.
Morgan Rogers makes his mark
Morgan Rogers also found the net on his Chelsea debut.
The former Aston Villa player has arrived with significant expectations, and scoring in his first league appearance could provide a major confidence boost.
Chelsea’s attacking options now look particularly dangerous.
Alonso has plenty to work on
Despite winning, Chelsea conceded twice and were forced to defend under pressure.
Alonso will know that his team must become more consistent defensively if they want to challenge for major honours.
The victory was impressive, but the new manager will not want his side conceding goals so easily.
Chelsea fans have reason to be excited
The attacking performance provided plenty of encouragement.
Joao Pedro, Palmer and Rogers all finding the net showed the potential Chelsea possess in the final third.
If Alonso can improve the defensive structure while maintaining that attacking quality, Chelsea could become a serious problem for Premier League rivals.
The season has only just started, but Chelsea have already produced one of the most entertaining performances of the opening weekend. citeturn0news52