Chelsea ended a five-match winless run away from home in the Premier League with a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, inspired by a brilliant display from teenager Estêvão Willian. The Brazilian scored the opener after a defensive error and set up João Pedro for the second, before Enzo Fernández added a controversial penalty.
Estêvão, making the most of a rare start due to Cole Palmer's thigh injury, capitalised on a poor back-pass from Palace debutant Jaydee Canvot to slot past Dean Henderson. He then turned provider after the interval, exchanging passes with João Pedro, who left Adam Wharton on the ground before scoring. Wharton was later sent off for a second yellow card.
Chris Richards headed a late consolation for Palace, but the hosts have now gone 17 Premier League matches without beating Chelsea and 11 games without a win in all competitions. Oliver Glasner's side remain just eight points above the relegation zone ahead of tricky fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Brighton.
Liam Rosenior, appointed Chelsea head coach earlier this month, saw his side move up to fifth place. He received a warm reception from the travelling fans at full time. "I hope so," he said when asked if supporters were starting to accept him. "I have to earn that."
Glasner, who confirmed he will leave Palace at the end of the season, defended Jean-Philippe Mateta after the striker missed an early chance. "We are in transition," he said. "Now is a moment to support everyone."
