Premier League Strugglers Finally Scrape a Win
In the Premier League, Chelsea defeated Leeds United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge for their first league victory in six games. In the 53rd minute, Wesley Fofana converted a corner kick into the winning goal. Despite having chances, the Blues couldn't get their act together in the first half and went into the break goalless. Joao Felix struck the bar's underside. However, the hosts returned stronger from the vacation, and it only took nine minutes for Fofana to meet Ben Chilwell's corner and score.
Leeds, who have only won the league on the road once this season, could have done better. Their only real effort on target came from their goalkeeper IllanMeslier, who poked a header into the goal in the final minute. KepaArrizabalaga, his Chelsea counterpart, however, saved it. The London club remains in tenth place with 34 points from 25 games, while Leeds is 17th, just one point above the relegation zone.
Chelsea finally won a game, this time in the Premier League, after six games without a win across all competitions. The Blues have lost three times in a row and drawn three times since their league victory over Crystal Palace on January 15. Graham Potter, the beleaguered manager, was under increasing pressure, his position was in jeopardy, and he was getting close to being fired. However, his team gave him a lifeline with a crucial win, their ninth in 25 games, still a poor record, in the top division.
Leeds' difficulties away from home appear never to end. The Peacocks had only won once in 12 league games this season, a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in October. Before this match, they had only won once in league play. That may be the primary reason they are near the bottom of the table. Leeds failed to challenge Chelsea goalkeeper KepaArrizabalaga and lacked any real attacking threat, much like they have been this season.