Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Sunday, with goals from Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto moving them up to second in the table.
Palmer opens the scoring
Chelsea took the lead in the 32nd minute when Cole Palmer finished coolly after being played through on goal. The goal came against the run of play, with Fulham having started brightly and created several early chances.
Fulham had the ball in the net in the first half through Emile Smith Rowe, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The hosts continued to push forward but were unable to find a way past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Neto doubles the lead
Pedro Neto doubled Chelsea's advantage in the 68th minute, finishing from close range after a cross from the right flank. The goal gave Chelsea breathing room and effectively ended Fulham's hopes of a comeback.
Fulham pushed for a consolation goal in the closing stages but Chelsea held firm to secure all three points. The victory means Chelsea have now won three of their opening four league matches this season.
Table implications
The win lifts Chelsea to second in the Premier League standings, while Fulham remain in the lower half of the table after suffering their second defeat of the campaign.
Both teams now turn their attention to their next fixtures, with Chelsea hosting Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge and Fulham travelling to face Nottingham Forest.
