Chelsea continued their impressive start to the season with a 3-1 win over Brighton as Xabi Alonso made it two wins out of two to start his career in the Premier League.
In a game that featured a debut for Emi Martinez, it was all about the full power of Chelsea's attack as their quickfire lead put them in a strong position early on. Alonso's men appear to be full of confidence already despite it still being early days in the new season and ambitions will only soar further after this impressive victory.
ESPN looks at how Chelsea players rated in the victory:
Manager rating (out of 10)
Xabi Alonso, 8 -- It's clear that the Spaniard is still testing out a few things at Chelsea so to be winning while he's doing so is impressive. Much like the game against Fulham some defensive frailties in his system were exposed but the club might well do something about that before the transfer window slams shut. From an attacking point of view, Chelsea are in a very good place with the front trio all playing a big part once again. Overall it's an encouraging start to life in west London for the former Liverpool player.
Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best, 5 = average)
GK Emiliano Martínez, 7 -- A strong presence between the sticks which is exactly what Alonso was missing. Unlucky with the Brighton goal after saving very well from Diego Gomez in the first half. Made some key stops in the second half with the defence caught napping at times.
CB Wesley Fofana, 7 -- Slotted on the right hand side of defence and cut out everything well that came down his channel. Assertive enough but will face stronger tests.
CB Maxence Lacroix, 6 -- Not at his very best as he was outmuscled by Charalampos Kostoulas for the Brighton goal and then also looked unsure against Diego Gomez at times. However he recovered well and showed why Chelsea were so keen to get him in.
CB Levi Colwill, 7 -- Passing ability fully on show here and he's going to be an essential part of Chelsea's desire to build from the back. He did get caught out of possession on numerous occasions though as he still gets to grips with his new position.
CM Romeo Lavia, 8 -- Took his goal well and showed he can excel in all sides of the game. Broke up play, kept his passing tidy but impactful and also motored forward with the attack. Now to keep him fit.
CM Malo Gusto, 6 -- Alonso moved him into the centre in a somewhat surprise move and it was a mixed outcome. Lots of hard work, energy ... but flat when asked for more.
LW Jorrel Hato, 7 -- Stepping into the wide role he looked extremely comfortable and had plenty of balance. Cut and thrust in attack while his pace and awareness kept him in good footing defensively.
RW Pedro Neto, 6 -- Good in attack but lacking when it came to defensive responsibilities. Tapped in his chance to score, then also put another on a plate for Joao Pedro. However, easily beaten for Brighton's opener and struggled when defending from then on.
AM Cole Palmer, 7 -- His usual proactive self in and around the penalty area, keen to get on the ball and make things happen. However on this occasion the other two players in Chelsea's fearsome attacking trio stole the limelight. Still, took his goal very well and is clearly enjoying life at Chelsea again.
AM Morgan Rogers, 8 -- A powerful run down the flank set up Neto for Chelsea's second goal then he also set up Palmer who should've scored. Brilliant with his movement and link up play all game. Already looks settled in at Chelsea.
CF João Pedro, 8 -- Should've scored Chelsea's third goal of the day but outside of that excellent in all aspects of his play. A real focal point in attack with his neat touches and flicks, including one that set up a goal.
Substitutes (players introduced after 70 minutes: no rating)
Josh Acheampong (on 68 for Fofana), 6 -- Steady after coming on and watching on he might've thought he should be starting.
Reece James (on 68 for Neto), 6 -- Provided energy down the flank after coming on and showed his awareness at both ends.
Moises Caicedo (on 68 for Lavia) NR -- Very sad to see him leave the pitch in tears after his return was cut short after just 11 minutes
Pep Chavarria (on 72, Colwill), NR
Valentin Barco (on 82, Caicedo), NR
