An inspired performance from Eden Hazard helped Chelsea back to winning ways in the Premier League with a comprehensive 4-0 victory against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.
Antonio Conte’s side were without a win in five games in all competitions heading into the clash on the south coast, but Hazard set the Blues on their way in the third minute before Willian rounded off a sensational team goal three minutes later to give the visitors the perfect start.
Brighton’s response to the early setback was good, creating a number of decent chances but Willy Caballero was on top form to deny Tomer Hemed and the crossbar kept out Davy Propper’s header early after the interval.
Ezequiel Schelotto was also denied by a smart block from Caballero and the hosts were eventually made to pay for their wastefulness in front of goal as Hazard (77) added his second of the afternoon and Victor Moses (89) rounded off the scoring as Chelsea wrapped up all three points to move above Liverpool in the third position.
Before kick-off, the Amex Stadium rose as one for a minute’s applause to mark the passing of Cyrille Regis and both teams sported black armbands in respect of the former striker.
Once underway, Chelsea burst out of the blocks and they were ahead in the third minute when Moses’ cross was diverted into the path of Hazard by Dale Stephens, and the Belgium international took a touch before firing the ball into the corner of the net for his 100th league goal.
Arsenal also demolished Crystal Palace with a 4 goals to 1 win at the emirate. Manchester city bounced back from their loss at anfield a week ago to win Newcastle 3:1.
Manchester United snatched an away win at Burnley. Leicester city also won big at Saturday’s game.
