Blues transfer into prime 4 with residence win

Chelsea returned to the highest 4 of the Premier League with an finally snug win over strugglers Wolves.

Enzo Maresca’s aspect had gone 5 league video games with out a win however took the lead when VAR awarded a Tosin Adarabioyo effort which was initially chalked off for offside.

Chelsea then went into their shell and Wolves seemed the higher aspect for a interval, capitalising in first-half stoppage time when Matt Doherty scrambled in from a nook after an error by Robert Sanchez.

Marc Cucurella places Chelsea again in entrance! 💫 pic.twitter.com/2aWb8gculH

— Sky Sports activities Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025

However the hosts have been a lot improved within the second half – if nonetheless removed from at their greatest – and Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke scored in fast succession.

The win takes Chelsea above Newcastle and Manchester Metropolis and leaves Wolves solely above the relegation zone on purpose distinction.

Chelsea exploit Wolves’ Achilles heel

Wolves have now conceded 19 targets from set-pieces within the Premier League this season – by far the worst document of any group.

Twice their weak spot was proven up at Stamford Bridge. First, a half cleared nook was hit again in by captain Reece James and Tosin did properly to manage earlier than sidefooting in his first league purpose for Chelsea.

The flag was raised however Matheus Cunha had been sluggish clearing his space and the previous Fulham man was simply onside.

Noni Madueke loves scoring in opposition to Wolves! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXOICqc95Y

— Sky Sports activities Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025

That error was nothing in comparison with the one Sanchez managed on the finish of the half although, spilling a Cunha nook on the toes of Doherty who couldn’t miss from a number of yards out.

It was the fourth error Sanchez has made resulting in a purpose this season – solely Arijanet Muric of Ipswich (5) has made extra.

Chelsea’s second purpose was the choose of the night time, Kiernan Dewsbury-Corridor making run on his first league begin for Chelsea and flicking on a cross which Cucurella chested down and poked in.

And moments later Trevoh Chalaboh rose properly to satisfy Cole Palmer’s free-kick and head down, with Madueke ensuring proper on the road.

Chalobah impressed on his first begin since being recalled from Crystal Palace but it surely stays to be seen the place his long-term future lies.

Wolves light badly within the second half and wish to search out factors quickly to maintain their heads above water. They face Arsenal on Saturday.