WATKINS’ SECOND-HALF DOUBLE STUNS CHELSEA
Ollie Watkins’ second-half brace cancelled out Joao Pedro’s first-half opener to seal a dramatic comeback for Aston Villa at Chelsea.
The 2-1 win lifts Unai Emery’s side to within three points of league leaders Arsenal, while Chelsea drop to fifth place and The Blues could drop further with Sunderland in action on Sunday.
Chelsea started in fast fashion and saw a number of efforts go narrowly past Emiliano Martinez’s posts.
Cole Palmer volleyed wide from inside the box after four minutes, while Enzo Fernandez curled his shot past the post after 18 minutes.
The Blues were rewarded for their dominance in the 37th minute as Joao Pedro unknowingly flicked in Reece James’ corner.
John McGinn tried to catch Robert Sanchez out from a free kick – Villa’s first shot – in first-half added time but the Chelsea keeper was smart to it.
Emery rang out the changes early after the break, which included the introduction of Watkins.
Morgan Rogers slipped the striker in-behind and the Englishman bundled the ball past Robert Sanchez to draw Villa level in the 63rd minute.
The goal sparked the visitors into life, who had several efforts denied by the Chelsea keeper.
Chelsea’s resolve was broken in the 84th minute as Watkins rose to head home Youri Tielemans’ corner.
Chelsea could not rally to find a response and Villa held on for the comeback win – their 11th successive victory – which sparked mass celebrations at Stamford Bridge.
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Image credit: Getty Images
