LONDON – Chelsea celebrated their first Premier League victory in six matches, outclassing relegation-threatened Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-1 at Stamford Bridge on Monday night. The home side’s goals were scored by defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Marc Cucurella, with a third goal scored by winger Noni Madueke, sealing the victory.
The triumph propels Chelsea, who were still second a month ago, above Manchester City and Newcastle United, taking fourth place. Wolves, meanwhile, remain precariously poised above the relegation zone, being separated from Ipswich Town only by goal difference.
Chasing a place in next season’s Champions League, Chelsea opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Tosin finished brilliantly from close range. However, a crucial error from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez allowed Wolves to equalize just before the break, when he mishandled a corner, allowing Matt Doherty to take advantage.
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With memories of recent matches where Chelsea squandered advantages still fresh in their minds, fans held their breath until Cucurella restored the lead on the hour mark, scoring after Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, during his first start in the League for Chelsea, deflected a cross from Madueke.
Just five minutes later, Madueke made it 3-1 with a well-placed header following a Trevoh Chalobah attempt which ensured the ball crossed the goal line.
-“It’s instinct. The striker’s instinct,” Madueke commented after the match. “I knew it was going to cross the line. I told Trevoh I was sorry after the goal. I had to make sure it went in the net for us.”
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Chelsea now find themselves on 40 points after 22 games, falling 10 points behind league leaders Liverpool and four points behind Arsenal and Nottingham Forest. They have a small margin of two points over Manchester City and Newcastle.
Manager Enzo Maresca welcomed the return of club captain Reece James, who made his first start after a series of injuries. Chalobah’s return to defense also provided a needed boost following injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
However, Chelsea prepare to face champions Manchester City on Saturday without defender Levi Colwill and midfielders Romeo Lavia and Enzo Fernandez all missing from the squad.
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