Neto Brace Breaks the Deadlock at Hill Dickinson

Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory away at Everton on Premier League matchday seven at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday. Goals from Pedro Neto early in the second half and at the death guaranteed all three points for the Blues in a match overshadowed by a head injury to goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.

The first half ended goalless after both sides failed to convert their chances. Everton, unbeaten in the league this season coming into the game, were disciplined at their new home, but the deadlock was finally broken a minute after the restart through Neto.

Martínez Incident Stops Play

The most alarming moment came in the 66th minute when Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez collided heavily with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. The Argentina goalkeeper received lengthy treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off in the 75th minute, with young Mike Penders taking his place.

Martínez was then taken to hospital for further assessment, though he was conscious as he left the stadium. Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso will be hoping his star goalkeeper's injury is not serious. The incident halted the rhythm of the match for several minutes.

First Clean Sheet Since January

Neto's second goal in the 90th minute sealed the win and Chelsea's first Premier League clean sheet since January — ending a long run of 22 games without one. The improved defensive record gives Alonso's squad valuable momentum ahead of a congested fixture list.

The victory lifts the Blues to fourth in the table with four wins from seven matches. Everton, meanwhile, suffered their first league defeat of the season and must bounce back quickly to keep their positive momentum alive in the early days of their new stadium era.

Big Implications for the Table

The win at Hill Dickinson Stadium lifts Chelsea to fourth in the Premier League table. The Blues now have four wins from seven matches, a solid start to the season under Xabi Alonso. Their first clean sheet since January signals that the defence is finally finding its rhythm.

Everton, on the other hand, must accept their first league defeat of the season. Despite the loss, the Toffees put up a spirited fight at their new home and have plenty of time to bounce back. The focus now is on staying consistent to avoid sliding down the table.