A dominant second-half display helped Chelsea beat Wolves to end their five-game winless run in the Premier League and move into the top four.

Having seen Tosin Adarabioyo's opener cancelled out by Matt Doherty, two goals in five second-half minutes from Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke carried the hosts to victory at Stamford Bridge.

Cucurella, making his 100th Premier League appearance, forced home from close range after Madueke's cross was flicked on by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

Madueke then nodded home after Trevoh Chalobah, playing after returning from his loan at Crystal Palace, climbed highest at a corner.

Those goals spared the blushes of Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez whose error allowed Doherty to equalise in first-half stoppage time.

Sanchez had moved a few yards off his line, which was spotted by Matheus Cunha, and the Brazilian swung a delicious delivery goalbound which the Spaniard attempted to claim rather than punch clear.

The error was keeper Sanchez's fourth that has led to a goal this season - only Ipswich's Arijanet Muric (five) has made more in the Premier League - and will lead to more questions around his selection with just one home clean sheet this campaign.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca defended Sanchez, telling Sky Sports: "You said it was the fourth mistake [leading to a goal]? OK, and how many times did he save us? More than four. So no problem. It happens. Mistakes happen to him, the strikers, the midfielders. He is doing well."

Tosin's opener - which was awarded by the video assistant referee (VAR) after being ruled out for offside - came when Reece James' effort was deflected into his path following a corner.

The victory moves Chelsea fourth, two points clear of Manchester City and Newcastle United.

Wolves, who have now conceded a league-high 51 goals, remain 17th and Vitor Pereira's side are only outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1218 HRS, JAN 21, 2025
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