Palmer stars as Alonso begins Chelsea reign with 3-2 Fulham win

Teenage midfielder Josh King levelled for the hosts with a fizzing shot that beat Robert Sanchez at his near post, capping an impressive display from the youngster.

Fulham then got back on level terms again when summer signing Gonzalo Garcia, signed from Real Madrid, nodded in from close range to give Alvaro Arbeloa’s side hope of a point.

The match swung end-to-end, with both teams creating chances in an open, attacking contest.

Despite the pressure, Chelsea’s defence stood firm in the closing stages to protect Palmer’s winner.

The result gives Alonso his first three points in charge and ends Chelsea’s run of winless opening league matches dating back to 2022-23.

For Fulham, King and Garcia showed promise, but defensive lapses early on proved costly against a Chelsea side inspired by Palmer.

Alonso will take confidence from the attacking output, with two debutants on the scoresheet and Palmer at the heart of everything.

Chelsea now turn their attention to their next Premier League fixture looking to build on this fast start under their new Spanish boss.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.