Chelsea vs Crystal Palace LIVE: Premier League result, final score and reaction
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A second-half goal from Kai Havertz proved enough to give Chelsea a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday, easing the pressure on manager Graham Potter after a poor run of form.
The German striker nodded in a cross from Hakim Ziyech in the 65th minute following a short corner. It was only the second league win in 10 matches for the home side who remain in 10th place half-way through the season.
Chelsea were on top for much of the lively if scrappy derby, but Palace kept goalkeeper Kepa busy with efforts from Tyrick Mitchell, Michael Olise and Wilfried Zaha and he was forced into a leaping save from Cheick Doucoure towards the end of the second half.
Midway through the first half Chelsea announced Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk had become their fifth signing of the January transfer window, and the 22-year-old waved to fans from the pitch at halftime, a Ukraine flag draped round his shoulders.
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
GOOD SAVE! Ziyech curls the corner in and Silva sees two headers blocked before it falls to him a third time on the edge of the box. He takes this one on the half-volley, fizzing it towards goal and Guaita gets down to deny him.
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Chelsea are enjoying a good spell of possession now, but it's all deep in their own half. They're patiently trying to draw Palace out so they can get upfield.
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
At the other end, there's a chance for Chelsea as it's played over the top by Jorginho to Havertz. He holds off Guehi long enough to chip an effort towards goal from outside the box. It lands on the roof of the net as the flag goes up.
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
KEPA SAVES! It's a lovely dink from Doucoure over Chelsea's midfield to pick out Olise in space just outside the box. He brings it down with a good first touch before hitting the volley, and Kepa stretches to tip it wide.
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