January 13, (THEWILL) – Chelsea made it three consecutive English Premier League victories for the first time since October 2022, edging past Fulham 1-0, thanks to a first-half stoppage time penalty by Cole Palmer at Stamford Bridge. The 21-year-old striker netted his 9th league goal of the campaign after Raheem Sterling was fouled in the area.
The move was initiated by a defence-splitting pass from Palmer, who spotted Sterling’s run and threaded an inch-perfect ball for the forward. Despite the goal against the run of play, Marco Silva’s visitors posed an attacking threat until the final whistle. Chelsea held firm defensively in the closing stages to continue their momentum.
The home side dominated early possession but struggled to test the Fulham defence. Conor Gallagher lifted their best chance of the opening 25 minutes over the bar. Sterling and Armando Broja later went close before the visitors carved out the first clear opportunity. Harry Wilson forced a strong save from Chelsea keeper Djordje Petrovic after a flowing Fulham move.
Palmer’s clinical spot-kick on the stroke of half-time was harsh on the away side’s first-half showing. Seeking a fourth win in five league games, Chelsea emerged re-energised after the interval. Sterling and Broja spurned further chances before Fulham rallied, with Raul Jimenez drawing another stop from Petrovic.
Ben Chilwell returned from a hamstring injury during an end-to-end finale, while late efforts from Gallagher and Willian struck woodwork at either end. Ultimately, Chelsea held on for three vital points.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
