Chelsea punished Bournemouth for their profligacy in front of goal through a late goal from Christopher Nkunku.
Despite Chelsea enjoying a larger share of the possession count, Bournemouth had clearer chances to punish the visitors.
The Clarets also had two of their efforts struck the bar, as Enzo Maresca’s side came out of the intense game unscathed.
Anthony Taylor Breaks Record In Chelsea’s Victory Over Bournemouth
Referee Anthony Taylor, who adjudicated the affair between Bournemouth and Chelsea also brandished the cards like it was running out of fashion.
The English referee has, for the umpteenth time, hugged the headlines for a game involving Chelsea, with his officiating often attracting mixed tractions from the fans.
Throughout the game involving Chelsea and Bournemouth, Taylor dished out 15 yellow cards and his “card-happy” display put him under the spotlight as aforementioned.
The more than a dozen cards brandished by Anthony Taylor in Chelsea’s victory over Bournemouth is the most ever in a Premier League game.
Robert Sanchez Makes First Half Penalty Save To Keep Chelsea In Good Position Against Bournemouth
Meanwhile, the biggest highlight from the first period was a penalty to Bournemouth, which they failed to convert.
Evanilson had been fouled in the box by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and Anthony Taylor wasted no time in pointing to the spot.
The Brazilian attacker stepped up and missed his spot kick, with Sanchez making a big save by parrying the ball away from a corner.
Both teams huffed and puffed in the second period, but Chelsea ultimately stole it at the end of the day following a late goal from Nkunku in the 86th minute.
The Frenchman battled through a challenges from Bournemouth players after receiving a pass from Sancho, who is on loan from Manchester United.
Jadon Sancho Bags An Assist On His Chelsea Debut
Jadon Sancho appears to have settled in well at Chelsea and his combination with his teammates in the attacking department looked seamless.
Sancho’s numbers on his debut for the Blues was also bright, as he completed 2 dribbles, created 2 chances and his long ball were all perfect (100%).
Interestingly, Jadon Sancho was given the Man of the Match award despite only coming on at half-time.
The England international joined Chelsea from Manchester United on a season-long loan deal this summer, with an obligation for the Stamford Bridge club to buy him outrightly in 2025 if certain clauses are met.
Chelsea
Meanwhile, the victory meant Enzo Maresca’s side have returned to winning ways following a defeat to Servette in the final qualification round for the 2024/25 UEFA Conference League and a draw against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
The victory has also pushed Chelsea to 7th position, with 7 points from 4 league games, having won 2 games, drawn 2 and lost 1.
They return to action on September 21, 2024, with an away clash against West Ham United at the London Stadium.
It would be fascinating to see how Chelsea fare in the coming matches, as they aim to achieve success this campaign.
Bournemouth
Andoni Iraola’s side currently occupy the 11th position, having amassed 5 points from 4 league matches.
They return to action on September 21, 2024, with an away game against Liverpool, who were beaten by Nottingham Forest in Matchday 4 of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
