Cole Palmer made Premier League history by scoring four goals in 20 first-half minutes, propelling Chelsea to a 4-2 win over Brighton on Saturday and moving them up to third place.
Brighton initially took the lead when Georginio Rutter capitalized on a series of defensive errors by Chelsea to head in his first goal for the Seagulls.
However, Palmer quickly turned the game around, becoming the first player in Premier League history to score four goals in the first half. The England international first swept in Nicolas Jackson’s pass to equalize, followed by a calm finish from the penalty spot.
Palmer completed his third Chelsea hat-trick in stunning fashion with a curling free-kick into the top corner.
Brighton briefly responded when Carlos Baleba pounced on a mistake by Chelsea goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez to pull one back.
Palmer sealed his record-breaking performance just before halftime, blasting a shot past Brighton’s keeper, Bart Verbruggen at the near post. He nearly added more before the break, hitting the post and having another goal disallowed.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Palmer, saying, “I’ve known Cole for many years since his time with Manchester City’s U-23s. His personality hasn’t changed despite his success, which is a great trait. He scored four but could have had more. I always encourage ambition and hunger for goals.”
The second half ended without any further scoring, but the damage was already done, handing Brighton their first defeat under manager Fabian Hurzeler.
Chelsea’s strong run under Maresca continues, with the team now collecting 13 points from a possible 15 since their opening day loss to Manchester City.
Reflecting on their progress, Maresca said, “I was more focused on the team’s development than the results, but we’re ahead of expectations in how we want to play.”
