Chelsea’s Cole Palmer etched his name in Premier League history on Saturday, scoring four times in the first half against Brighton to secure a 4-2 victory.
The Blues initially trailed after Georginio Rutter capitalized on defensive errors to score his first goal for Brighton.
However, Palmer took center stage, becoming the first Premier League player to score four times in a single half. “The best thing is the way he is as a human is the same way. This doesn’t change his life,” Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca praised.
Palmer’s goals came via a swept finish, penalty kick, free-kick, and powerful blast. Carlos Baleba reduced Brighton’s deficit, but Palmer’s historic first half sealed the win.
Chelsea’s impressive start under Maresca continues, with 13 points from 15 possible since losing to Manchester City on opening weekend.
Maresca emphasized his focus on team progression over results, stating, “We are ahead in my expectation in the way we want to play.”
Brighton suffered their first defeat under Fabian Hurzeler, unable to recover from Palmer’s devastating first-half display.
Palmer’s remarkable performance solidifies Chelsea’s third-place position in the Premier League.
