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Chelsea began Xabi Alonso’s reign as manager with a 3-2 victory over Fulham in a thrilling Premier League London derby at Craven Cottage.
João Pedro, Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer scored for Chelsea as the visitors survived a late Fulham fightback to claim three points in Alonso’s first competitive match in charge.
Chelsea needed only 31 seconds to take the lead. Palmer supplied the pass for João Pedro, who lifted the ball over Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno to produce the fastest goal of the opening round in Premier League history.
Fulham responded in the 24th minute when Josh King took advantage of a mistake by Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez to level the score.
Chelsea regained the advantage shortly before half-time when new signing Maxence Lacroix created the opportunity for Rogers, who finished to mark his debut with a goal.
Palmer then extended Chelsea’s lead shortly after the restart. João Pedro returned the favour by setting up the England international, whose finish made it 3-1.
Fulham refused to surrender. Gonzalo García scored on his debut to reduce the deficit and give the home side renewed hope.
The hosts pushed for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Chelsea held on to secure a winning start under Alonso.
The result gives Alonso an early boost as he attempts to rebuild a Chelsea side that finished 10th in the Premier League last season.
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