Stunning link-up play between two of Chelsea's most exciting talents led to a remarkable 6-2 away win for the Blues at Wolves, banishing fans' concerns over early wobbles under new gaffer Enzo Maresca.
Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke may have shown glimpses of on-field telepathy at the tail end of last season under Morrie Pochettino, but their second-half synchronicity in attack at Molineux on bank holiday weekend was simply sublime.
Now the challenge is to take that momentum forward with the Blues hosting Palace at the Bridge this weekend following the Eagles' midweek League Cup win against Norwich City.
As the summer transfer window starts to creak shut, Chelsea's recruitment policy seems scattergun and panicky. But with a top-heavy squad of 40+ are more signings really needed?
As Madueke netted a 14-minute hat-trick against Wolves, building on first-half goals by Nico Jackson and Palmer, and Joao Felix scored on his return to the Blues, isn't it time to stop buying? Who needs Raheem Sterling or Conor Gallagher when Maresca already has such a deep pool of ability to draw on?
The manager' stock has rocketed. The plodding, hesitant build-up play in evidence as Chelsea edged past the Swiss side Servette last week (after being booed off at half-time) was replaced by bright, positive and optimistic belief at Wolves.
Maresca freely admits he still hasn't found his best starting Xl, and Reece James is not quite ready to return, but there's a spring in everyone’s step again. Traditionally, results at the start and end of any season can be bizarre, and 6-2 away victories are rarities. But Maresca knows how important that early away win could be, to steady the nerves in the stands and impose his authority.
The hat-trick from Madueke, each goal set up by the gifted Palmer, was pure joy. "Since Day 1 I've said he’s the kind of winger I really like," said the manager of Madueke, who has played for England at U21 level, and must now be worth a second look for the senior squad. Especially if he's paired with his pal Palmer.
Bompastor raring to go
Chelsea Women return from their pre-season tour of the States, which included a psychologically important 1-0 victory over Arsenal, to face the Dutch side Feyenoord at Kingsmeadow at noon on Saturday 7 September.
But the season proper begins on Friday 20 September when new head coach Sonia Bompastor takes charge of her first WSL game, against Aston Villa.
Her task is simple. To win the Women's Champions League… something she's already achieved with Lyon as both player and manager.
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and unless specifically stated are not necessarily those of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
