Chelsea v Brighton
Play By Play
That brings an end to a wonderful game of football at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea have edged out Brighton 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller. The Blues make it two wins from two in the Premier League under Xabi Alonso, whose side had just a quarter of the game's possession. Although, their attacking superiority was highlighted by their 2.97 xG, compared to Brighton's 1.49. Just four minutes had elapsed when Lavia pounced on a mix-up between Verbruggen and Wieffer to prod home from close range. Neto made it 2-0 10 minutes later when he turned in Rogers' low cross after a swift attack. A sweeping counter led to a third goal in the 32nd minute, with Joao Pedro rounding things off following a superb run and pass from Hato. Brighton gave themselves hope three minutes later, when Yalcouye volleyed home a rebound on his first Premier League start. The Seagulls pulled another goal back just after the hour mark, as Joao Pedro deflected Gross' cross into his own net. However, Chelsea got back on track with what proved to be the decisive strike, courtesy of a wonderful individual effort from Palmer with 16 minutes remaining. Gross headed a last-gasp third goal for Brighton, who are the first team in 50 years to score three or more goals in four successive league games against Chelsea. It was a consolation, though, for the visitors, who leave West London empty-handed despite their dominance in possession. Hurzeler's side will look to get back on track when they welcome Leeds United to the Amex Stadium on Saturday. The following day, Alonso faces a huge test of his credentials, as he takes Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium to face reigning Premier League champions Arsenal. That's all for today. We hope you've enjoyed our coverage as much as we have! Until next time, goodbye!
FULL-TIME: CHELSEA 4-3 BRIGHTON
IT'S 4-3!!! BRIGHTON HAVE A GOAL BACK THROUGH GROSS! It's probably too late now, but the Seagulls have what looks like will be the final say on the scoreboard. It's a superb header from Gross, who beats Martinez from just inside the area after Chelsea fail to deal with a set-piece. He sprints to regain the ball, but will Brighton have another chance to attack?
Brighton are looking to embark on a late surge. However, Vuskovic cannot direct his header towards goal.
We are into the second of five additional minutes at the end of this game. Chelsea look like they'll see this out.
Joao Pedro looks to counter for Chelsea, but is dragged to the floor by Costinha. The substitute can have no complaints at going into the book.
Rogers is still showing plenty of energy late in the game. He holds off a couple of challenges before looking to drive forward on the counter. That's until he's fouled by Boscagli, who goes into the book.
Whatever subsequently happens in his tenure, Alonso has already made Chelsea history. The seven goals scored are the most any Blues coach has overseen in his first two Premier League matches in charge of the club. Barring a late Brighton comeback, it looks like it will be three wins from three in all competitions for the Spaniard.
The substitutions have taken some of the sting out of the game heading into the last five minutes. That will suit Chelsea, but Brighton must find a spark if they're not leave Stamford Bridge empty-handed.
A sad sight for Chelsea. Caicedo, just over 10 minutes after his introduction, goes down and is unable to continue. There are tears in the midfielder's eyes, as he trudges to the touchline to be replaced by another ex-Brighton man in Barco.
Costinha also enters the fray with Wieffer, who was involved in the mix-up that led to Chelsea's first goal, making way.
Brighton make a couple of changes in their bid to launch a late rally. Loanee David comes on for the final 10 minutes in place of Kostoulas.
Speaking of Palmer, that's now six Premier League goals against Brighton. Only against Wolves (eight) has he found the net more times in the English top flight. More importantly, it's got Chelsea back on track, and potentially on course for all three points.
Many eyebrows were raised by Tuchel's decision not to include Palmer in his World Cup squad. His absence was certainly felt, with England missing that creative spark he possesses. Nevertheless, Palmer's done exactly the right thing, by letting his quality do the talking in front of the watching Three Lions boss.
Having already scored at both ends, Joao Pedro adds an assist to his day's work. The Brazilian fed the ball into Palmer, who did the rest in superb fashion.
OH, THAT'S FANTASTIC FROM PALMER!!! 4-2 CHELSEA! The hosts have breathing space once again! It's a moment of individual brilliance from Palmer. He glides away from the Brighton defence as he makes his way towards the edge of the penalty area, before sweeping a fierce shot into Verbruggen's bottom-right corner. Alonso enjoyed that one, as he jumps for joy on the touchline.
Brighton make a change and their opening goalscorer is given a breather, with Yalcouye replaced by Osman.
OUCH! Chelsea threaten at the other end of the field. Palmer, surrounded by Brighton shirts, tees up Rogers. His first-time shot is blocked by Wieffer, albeit full in the face. He takes a moment to gather himself, before getting back to his feet.
Another Chelsea change at the back, with Colwill the player to make way for Chavarria.
There's a chance for Joao Pedro to get in behind, as he chases a long clearance downfield. Dunk is struggling and takes out his former team-mate. Another Brighton defender was covering, though, meaning the Seagulls skipper only receives a yellow card as opposed to a red.
GOOD SAVE! At the moment, a Brighton equaliser seems far more likely than a fourth Chelsea goal. The ball is teed up to the edge of the box, where Boscagli's first-time effort is pushed away by Martinez, who gets down well.
Another former Brighton player enters the fray for Chelsea. Caicedo is introduced in place of Neto, who hadn't been moving comfortably since picking up that knock.
There's also a change in the heart of defence, with Fofana making way to be replaced by Acheampong.
The scorer of the first goal, Lavia makes way to be replaced by James.
Alonso's seen enough. There's activity on the Chelsea bench, with three players getting ready to come on.
