Cole Palmer netted his seventh goal of the season as Chelsea triumphed over Newcastle, furthering their strong start to the campaign.
Palmer found the net early in the second half, delivering a clean strike from just inside the penalty area that beat Nick Pope at his near post.
Nicolas Jackson had given Chelsea the lead in the 18th minute, converting a shot from Pedro Neto’s square pass after Palmer’s exquisite assist set up the play.
However, Newcastle equalized 14 minutes later when Alexander Isak tapped in a goal.
Isak had a chance to put Newcastle ahead late in the match after rounding goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, but his attempt to walk the ball in was thwarted by Chelsea defenders.
Chelsea believed they had won a late penalty when Christopher Nkunku went down in the box after a challenge. Initially awarded, the penalty decision was overturned after a video assistant referee review revealed that Nkunku appeared to slip.
Ultimately, Palmer’s seventh goal in just nine Premier League matches secured three points for Chelsea, moving them up to fourth place in the table.
They could drop to fifth if Arsenal avoids defeat against Liverpool later on Sunday, but Chelsea’s current standing reflects their impressive form under manager Enzo Maresca this season.
Under the former Leicester manager, Chelsea has won five of their nine Premier League games, suffering losses only to Manchester City and Liverpool.
Meanwhile, Newcastle sits in 12th place and is now winless in their last five league matches.
Palmer shines again for clinical Chelsea
Last season, Chelsea frequently created chances but struggled to convert them; however, that has changed this term.
They have scored in their last 13 matches across all competitions, and with Sunday’s two goals, they have tallied 19 goals in their last seven home games.
Palmer’s latest strike marks 20 goals in his last 24 appearances for Chelsea, highlighting his role as a crucial finisher. Jackson is also regularly contributing to the scoreline, and both players consistently troubled the Newcastle defense.
Having reliable goalscorers is vital for any team competing for a top-four finish, and Chelsea undoubtedly possesses that quality.