Chelsea finally ended their wait for a Premier League victory with a hard-fought 2-0 win against Brentford at Stamford Bridge. First-half goals from João Pedro and a late Cole Palmer penalty secured a crucial three points for manager Liam Rosenior, marking his first league win in charge.
A Nervy Start and a VAR-Reviewed Opener
The match began in a subdued atmosphere, punctuated by a small protest against the club's ownership. On the pitch, Chelsea started slowly, allowing Brentford to create the better early chances. Kevin Schade squandered a golden opportunity in the 21st minute, opting to pass when through on goal.
Against the run of play, Chelsea took the lead in the 26th minute through João Pedro. The Brazilian striker finished smartly after a deflected clearance from Enzo Fernández fell into his path. The goal was initially ruled offside, but a VAR review by Stuart Attwell correctly showed Pedro was onside, awarding him his eighth goal of the season.
Brentford Rues Missed Opportunities
The visitors continued to threaten, hitting the post through Mathias Jensen before the break and seeing a header from Igor Thiago go wide in the second half. However, their profligacy in front of goal proved costly. Chelsea, while looking vulnerable at times, held their lead as the game entered its final stages.
Palmer's Penalty Seals the Points
The contest was effectively ended by a moment of calamity from Brentford defender Nathan Collins. His errant back-pass forced goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher into a desperate challenge on Chelsea substitute Liam Delap, conceding a clear penalty. Cole Palmer stepped up and smashed the spot-kick home with 15 minutes remaining to double Chelsea's advantage and seal the victory.
The win lifts some of the immediate pressure on Rosenior and halts a run of six Premier League games without a victory. For Brentford, it was a frustrating afternoon where their failure to convert chances led to a first defeat in six matches. The result keeps Chelsea in the hunt for European qualification, though significant improvements will be needed in their overall performances.
