Chelsea, Tottenham, Others In Opening Premier League Wins

MAURIZIO Sarri’s reign as Chelsea boss started in impressive fashion as his side ran out comfortable 3-0 winners over Huddersfield at the John Smith’s Stadium.

N’golo Kante of all people gave Chelsea the lead after the half hour, before new signing Jorginho scored one of the coolest penalties you’ll ever see to double their advantage on the stroke of half time. Pedro completed the scoreline 10 minutes from the end in a comfortable win for the Blues and a worrying start for the Terriers, who struggled to score last season and could suffer the same problems this time around.

Chelsea gave Kepa Arrizabalaga his debut just days after becoming the most expensive goalkeeper in history, and the 23-year-old, who cost £72.1m from Athletic Bilbao, responded with a clean sheet.

Earlier, Tottenham made a winning start to the 2018/19 Premier League season with a 2-1 victory over Newcastle at St James’ Park, with all three goals coming in a thrilling first 20 minutes.

The visitors needed just eight minutes to get their noses in front when Jan Vertonghen converted via the crossbar, with referee Martin Atkinson awarding the goal after being alerted that the ball had crossed the line. The lead lasted just three minutes as Joselu rewarded manager, Rafael Benitez for his faith in picking him ahead of summer signings, Salomon Rondon, and Yoshinori Muto by scoring the equaliser. Dele Alli grabbed what turned out to be the winner as Spurs proved that no new signings might not be a problem for them this season.

It was a happy return to Craven Cottage for Roy Hodgson but an unhappy return to the Premier League for Fulham as Palace came away with a 2-0 win in their London derby.

Jefferey Schlupp was another surprise scorer in the Premier League’s opening weekend as he gave the Eagles the lead four minutes before the interval.