Chelsea dominated Everton at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League after Palmer opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a superb curling shot into the bottom corner after skillfully playing a one-two with teammate Nicolas Jackson, who had earlier nutmegged Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
He then doubled Chelsea’s lead five minutes later, heading in a rebound following a Jackson shot saved by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Palmer completed his hat-trick in spectacular fashion midway through the first half, intercepting a poor pass from Pickford and lobbing the England goalkeeper from 40 yards out.
Jackson further added to Everton’s misery just before halftime, volleying in Marc Cucurella’s cut-back.
This situation saw an embarrassing moment for the Blue as Noni Madueke and Nicholas Jackson fought for the penalty like kids. In the end, Cole Palmer got to play the penalty, scoring 4 goals for Chelsea.
The embarrassing moment got fans upset on social media. Manager Pochettino expressed dissatisfaction, revealing that Palmer is Chelsea’s penalty-taker
Why were Noni Madueke and Nicholas Jackson fighting for a penalty like kids yet Cole Palmer is the main penalty taker? Embarrassing.
Should we blame Pochettino or the Chelsea dressing room is divided?pic.twitter.com/8QuU6jeBon
— 99 attempts (@Itismourinho) April 16, 2024
Mauricio Pochettino reiterated that Cole Palmer is Chelsea’s penalty taker after a “daft” spat with Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke.
“I am so upset about the situation,” he said.
🗣️ “I am so upset about the situation”
Mauricio Pochettino reiterated that Cole Palmer is Chelsea’s penalty taker after a “daft” spat with Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke 🔵 pic.twitter.com/IY2wM6TGTT
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 16, 2024
Chelsea’s sixth goal came in the 90th minute when substitute Alfie Gilchrist scored his first goal for the club from a tight angle.
The victory extended Chelsea’s unbeaten run in the Premier League to eight matches, placing them three points behind seventh-placed Manchester United, who hold the last European spot and have played one game less.
In contrast, Everton, playing their first match after receiving a two-point deduction for a second breach of Premier League financial rules, remained in 16th place, two points above the relegation zone.