Ipswich Town stun Chelsea
Ipswich Town 2 - 0 Chelsea
Liam Delap's standout performance inspired Ipswich Town to their first home victory of the season, dealing a blow to Chelsea’s dwindling Premier League title ambitions.
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The 21-year-old striker opened the scoring in the 12th minute, confidently converting a penalty he earned after VAR determined goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen had made sufficient contact as Delap weaved past him. Just eight minutes into the second half, Delap turned provider, seizing on Axel Disasi's wayward back pass to set up ex-Chelsea winger Omari Hutchinson for Ipswich's second goal.
Despite dominating possession, Chelsea were wasteful in front of goal, with Joao Felix’s would-be first-half equaliser ruled out by VAR after a lengthy offside check.
Ipswich’s hard-fought win lifts them above Leicester City into 18th place, leaving them just a point behind Wolves as they continue their push to escape the relegation zone.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are struggling to maintain form. Following their goalless draw at Everton, which ended an eight-game winning streak, the Blues have now suffered back-to-back defeats. They remain fourth in the Premier League, but sit 10 points adrift of leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand. Enzo Maresca’s side now face an uphill battle to stay in the title race.
Former City star seals the show
In what was probably a surprising twist, Ipswich’s Liam Delap emerged as the most dangerous forward on the pitch.
Amid growing transfer rumours linking him with Chelsea and other top Premier League clubs, Delap showcased exactly why he’s attracting attention. Not only did he score and assist, but he also posed a constant threat, forcing Jorgensen into multiple saves and tormenting Chelsea’s centre-backs Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo. His ability to hold up play and turn defence into attack on the break was exceptional.
Signed from Manchester City in the summer, Delap’s performances suggest Ipswich may struggle to keep hold of him if he continues this rich vein of form.
Ipswich also benefited from impressive displays by Omari Hutchinson, who bagged the second goal, and Nathan Broadhead, whose all-round performance made him another standout player.
For Chelsea, the need to sign a clinical striker in January grows more pressing, having netted just once in their last three matches.
