Palmer demonstrates his exceptional skill once more.
Cole Palmer made history as the first player to score four first-half goals in a Premier League match, leading Chelsea to a commanding victory over Brighton and lifting them to third in the table.
In a thrilling encounter, the 22-year-old Palmer also hit the post and had another goal disallowed before halftime, as Chelsea’s quick attack took advantage of Brighton’s high defensive line.
Brighton netted twice early on, with both goals stemming from errors by Chelsea’s former Brighton goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, in a sun-soaked Stamford Bridge. However, after Georginio Rutter headed Chelsea ahead, Palmer seized control of the game with a brilliant individual performance.
The England international hit the post, had a goal ruled out for offside, and then scored from Nicolas Jackson’s assist—three attempts coming within 138 electrifying seconds.
Palmer followed up by converting his 10th consecutive penalty for Chelsea after Jadon Sancho was fouled, and then completed a hat-trick with a stunning 25-yard free-kick.
He added a fourth goal, slotting in from a Sancho pass, shortly after Carlos Baleba capitalized on Sanchez’s mistake to give Brighton brief hope.
Chelsea, who had scored six against Wolves last month, were once again clinical in attack, while Brighton’s refusal to adjust their tactics appeared misguided, handing young manager Fabian Hurzeler his first defeat.
The second half saw fewer highlights, although Palmer did miss an opportunity for a fifth, firing wide from a promising position.