Neto’s brace fires Chelsea past Everton but Martinez head injury mars win

What the report says

Chelsea defeated Everton 2-0 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, with Portuguese winger Pedro Neto scoring both goals to secure the visitors’ first away win of the Premier League season. The result also ended Everton’s unbeaten start and moved Chelsea into the top four. Al Jazeera reported that the match was played under the shadow of an injury to Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who had to leave after a head collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and was taken to hospital for precautionary tests.

Neto opened the scoring early in the second half and added a second goal during an extended period of stoppage time after Martinez’s treatment delayed the game. Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso said the goalkeeper was conscious when he left the stadium, while Everton manager David Moyes felt his side lacked the attacking quality to take advantage of their moments.

The win was notable for Chelsea’s first Premier League clean sheet in 23 matches, a sign of improvement after a difficult defensive run. The match itself was physical and tense, with several first-half cautions and a disputed booking decision before Chelsea took control after halftime.

For Chelsea, the performance offered evidence that Alonso’s side are becoming more organised and harder to beat. For Everton, the defeat was their first of the campaign and a reminder of the need for greater efficiency in front of goal.