Published on 13.02.2024
Chelsea staged a remarkable comeback to secure victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, thanks to two goals from Conor Gallagher.
Despite dominating the game in the opening period, Chelsea found themselves trailing after Jefferson Lerma’s superb strike from outside the box in the 30th minute.
Crystal Palace aimed to frustrate their opponents and extend their lead over the relegation zone, managing to keep Chelsea at bay until just two minutes into the second half. It was then that Gallagher, who had previously been on loan at Palace during the 2021-22 season, met Malo Gusto’s cross with an emphatic finish past Dean Henderson.
◉ Conor Gallagher's favourite Premier League ground: Selhurst Park (5 goals)
— Squawka (@Squawka) February 12, 2024
◉ Conor Gallagher's favourite Premier League opponent: Crystal Palace (3 goals)
Football is a funny old game. 🤪 pic.twitter.com/2ovffFy3tz
With momentum on their side and determined for a win, it was only a matter of time before Chelsea found their winner. In stoppage time, Gallagher sealed his brace with a skillful first-time strike. Enzo Fernandez added further gloss to the scoreline with a composed finish near post.
The victory propelled Chelsea up to 10th place in the table and put more pressure on Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson. Mauricio Pochettino’s team had initially struggled to find opportunities but managed a late surge that secured them all three points.
Overall, it was an impressive performance by Chelsea as they displayed resilience and determination throughout. The win not only boosts their position in mid-table but also sends a message of intent as they continue their push for higher rankings in future matches.
Chelsea entered this match following an impressive victory in the FA Cup against Aston Villa. They made only one forced change, with Thiago Silva replacing the injured Benoit Badiashile as a center-back.
During the first half, despite dominating possession and completing 420 passes, Chelsea struggled to break down Crystal Palace’s defense. This was the highest number of passes completed in the opening 45 minutes of a Premier League game without registering a shot on target since the 2003-04 season.
Throughout this season, Pochettino’s team has faced difficulties in penetrating teams that employ a low defensive block. Hodgson’s side proved to be challenging for them as well.
In an attempt to improve their attacking prowess, Chelsea made substitutions at halftime. Christopher Nkunku came on while Cole Palmer moved out wide to play on the right flank. These changes seemed to make Chelsea more fluid in their attacking play.
It was Palmer who delivered a precise cross from wide which set up Gallagher’s second goal – a beautifully executed finish into the bottom corner of Crystal Palace’s net.
With three goals scored in two games (including his goal against Aston Villa), Gallagher will be hoping that these are just his first league goals of many for him and his team this season.
Chelsea will be making a trip to Manchester City this Saturday, followed by the EFL Cup final against Liverpool and an FA Cup match against Leeds. These upcoming two weeks are of utmost importance for their season.
