Liam Delap’s brilliant display powered Ipswich Town to their first home victory of the Premier League season, further damaging Chelsea’s chances in the title race.
The 21-year-old striker opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a coolly taken penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after VAR confirmed goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen had made sufficient contact with Delap during a surging run. Delap continued to influence the game, intercepting a wayward back pass from Axel Disasi to assist Omari Hutchinson for Ipswich’s second goal eight minutes into the second half. Hutchinson, a former Chelsea winger, seized the opportunity with a clinical finish.
Despite dominating possession, Chelsea struggled to convert their chances. A potential equalizer from Joao Felix was disallowed after a prolonged VAR review for offside, adding to the Blues’ frustrations.
The loss extends Chelsea’s struggles, coming on the heels of a goalless draw against Everton that ended their eight-match unbeaten run across all competitions. This back-to-back setback further dims their Premier League title prospects.
For Ipswich, the victory is a critical boost. The win lifts them out of the relegation zone, moving above Leicester City into 18th place and within a point of Wolves.
Chelsea, however, face an uphill battle as they now trail league leaders Liverpool by 10 points. Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, also have a game in hand, further complicating the Blues’ aspirations this season.