Chelsea (1) 1 v 0 (0) Fulham
45+4 Palmer (pen.)
Yellows: Gusto, Disasi, Thiago, Fernandez, Palmer Wilson Ref. A Taylor
Played Saturday 13 January 2024 at Stamford Bridge, attendance undeclared.
The outcome of this latest Premier London Derbies (PLDs) match may have hinged on a possible Red card decision. Chelsea right back Malo Gusto fouled Fulham’s evergreen attacker Willian with a “studs above the ankle” tackle on 38 minutes. A Yellow card was given. At the end of the first half The Blues’ Raheem Sterling was brought down by the visitors’ Issa Diop for a clear penalty which Cole Palmer confidently converted. Chelsea have the most penalties (8) awarded to them of all Premier League (PL) Clubs; Cole Palmer has scored the most (5) in the PL; and Raheem Sterling has had the most awarded against him.
The second half was a more even contest but Chelsea held out for a third 1-0 win in a row. Both sides look short of goals and lack a natural goal scorer. They are both semi-finalists in the EFL Cup, but unlikely to meet in the Final. On Tuesday 23 January it’s Chelsea v Middlesborough (aggregate score 0-1), and on Wednesday 24 January 2024 Fulham v Liverpool (aggregate score 1-2). A London Derby Final would be a boost for both Chelsea and Fulham Clubs, Managers and fans.
Next up in our PLDs matches is Arsenal v Crystal Palace on Saturday 20 January 2024. Both need 3 points, The Gunners to revive their Championship hopes, and The Eagles to keep out of the PL bottom 6, for whom relegation is always a real possibility. Expectations are high on both sides but form inconsistent.
Until next time, “Keep Safe” and enjoy your football. Andrew at PLDs.