Chelsea Get Long-Awaited Stratford Victory

West Ham United are still waiting for their sixth win of 2024 after Chelsea beat them 3-0 in Saturday’s early kick-off.

Tomáš Souček and Michail Antonio were dropped to the bench, as Julen Lopetegui made two changes to the team that drew 1-1 at Fulham a week ago with Crysencio Summerville and Lucas Paquetá replacing them.

For the first few minutes, the Irons were in the game as Edson Álvarez played in Mohammed Kudus but unfortunately, the winger shot straight at visiting goalkeeper Robert Sánchez.

From that point on, the visitors took complete control and West Ham’s defensive frailties started to show once again when Nicolas Jackson collected possession from Jadon Sancho’s quickly-taken free-kick, ran into the box and then comfortably beat Alphonse Areola.

Chelsea had not won in Stratford since April 2021 so the home fans might have been thinking that the early setback wouldn’t deter their side and that they would possibly regain momentum after their disastrous start. Well, what transpired was the exact opposite, as Jackson helped himself to another just fourteen minutes later. This time, he linked up well with Moisés Caicedo and sent the ball past West Ham’s French stopper.

The Hammers thought they should have been awarded a way back into the game via the penalty spot when Summerville was pulled to the ground by Wesley Fofana but referee Sam Barrott saw nothing wrong with the offence.

The majority inside the stadium were then cheering after Kudus had put the ball into the back of the Chelsea net but unfortunately, their elation was short lived as the effort was ruled out by both Barrott, and VAR for offside.

Before matters got even worse for his side,  Lopetegui decided to change personnel. Guido Rodríguez was withdrawn in favour of Souček with thirty seven minutes gone. The Czech was straight into the action and almost made the desired impact but he couldn’t make the most of the chance, as his attempt was held onto by Sánchez.

Referee Barrott blew the whistle for the break and the Hammers certainly had plenty to think about!!!

No further changes were made by the new Head-Coach at the break but the hosts made another critical mistake just seventy five seconds after the action had recommenced. Jackson again did all the hard work and set up Cole Palmer to wrap up another three points for his side on the road.

Enzo Maresca’s side continued to make chances but thankfully, no more efforts troubled Areola and although a number of substitutions were made, including a first competitive appearance for Andy Irving, together with a home debut for Carlos Soler, following four minutes of stoppage time, Barrott brought what had been a thoroughly miserable afternoon for the hosts to an end.

The East Londoners finally venture out of London on Wednesday night however, the opposition for their Carabao Cup third-round tie doesn’t get any easier, as they face Liverpool.