By David Awopetu
Chelsea celebrated the return of supporters to Stamford Bridge with an entertaining and deserved 3-1 comeback win over Leeds United, which sends them top of the Premier League table.
For the first time since March, Chelsea fans were in the stands on Saturday night following the easing of coronavirus restrictions – although the 2,000 supporters were almost immediately silenced by their former striker, Patrick Bamford, and his impressive opener just four minutes in.
Olivier Giroud – making his first Premier League start of the season after scoring four at Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday – pulled the Blues level on 27 minutes, though, turning home Reece James’ brilliant cross, before Kurt Zouma’s excellent header, and his 4th goal of the season completed the turnaround.
Substitute Christian Pulisic added a late third from Werner’s pass, with the United States winger becoming the 13th different player to score for Chelsea in the Premier League this season.
Chelsea, who started the day third, are one point clear at the top.
There were scenes of celebration after the final whistle as Blues boss, Frank Lampard, went over to applaud fans inside the ground, who gave the players a standing ovation while they headed for the dressing room.
One supporter held up a banner which read “It’s great to be back” and Chelsea certainly relished the occasion as they turned on the style.
