Chelsea came close to squandering their victory against Luton despite leading by three goals

In the 20th round of the English Premier League Chelsea faced Luton away.

The aristocrats swiftly initiated the match, seizing the lead as early as the 12th minute: Palmer capitalized on the hosts' defensive error, striking the ball like a billiard shot to open the scoring. Fifteen minutes later, Madueke's powerful shot pierced Kaminski's defense, granting the Blues a comfortable two-goal lead before halftime.

With 20 minutes remaining in regular time Palmer, following a masterful pass from Jackson, calmly outwitted the hosts' goalkeeper, extending the lead to a resounding advantage. At that point, the game seemed settled, yet Luton showed no intent to surrender before their home supporters.

In the 80th minute, Barkley narrowed the deficit, and thereafter, Luton missed several good opportunities to level the score. In the 86th minute, Adebayo reduced the deficit to a single goal, making the conclusion of the match nervous for Chelsea.

The aristocrats, albeit with some difficulty, managed to secure the victory, defeating Luton for the second time this season.

Chelsea concluded 2023 in 10th place in the Premier League table with 28 points. Their next match, under Pochettino's guidance, will be on January 6th against Preston in the FA Cup. Luton sits in 18th place with 15 points.

• Premier League, 20th Round

Luton - Chelsea - 2:3

Goals: Barkley, 80, Adebayo, 86 - Palmer, 12, 70, Madueke, 37