30 December 2053 – Drogba Arena, London. Chelsea wrapped up the calendar year in clinical fashion with a composed 3–0 win over Reading, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points with a game in hand.
🎯 On Target Again
Kieran O’Sullivan opened the scoring midway through the first half, rising highest to glance in a firm header from close range. The young Irishman, often scrutinised for recent spot-kick woes, delivered emphatically in open play to settle nerves early.
Johnny Jenkins added a second just after the interval. His fierce effort took a nick off a Reading defender and flew past Singleton — the sort of luck that follows form players. With Chelsea purring, the third came via a recycled set piece, with Jairzinho rifling in on the volley from a narrow angle.
🖥️ VAR Drama (Again)
Junior missed from the spot for Chelsea on 66 minutes, but Jairzinho’s strike minutes later was originally chalked off for offside. VAR correctly overturned the decision, triggering celebration around the ground and disbelief on the Reading bench.
🔑 Key Performers
- Kieran O’Sullivan: 7.7 match rating, 5 fouls won, and Player of the Match honours.
- Jairzinho: A constant outlet on the wing — goal, pressing, and pace in one.
- McKauley Civzelis: Dominant in midfield again, shielding the back four.
📊 Match Stats
- Score: Chelsea 3–0 Reading
- Goals: O’Sullivan (25′), Jenkins (49′), Jairzinho (70′)
- xG: Chelsea 3.54 – Reading 0.30
- Possession: Chelsea 75% – Reading 25%
- Shots: Chelsea 22 – Reading 3
🧮 Title Implications
The result moves Chelsea to 50 points from 20 matches — seven clear of Arsenal, who have played a game more. With a goal difference of +61 and form in both penalty areas, Calin Dimario’s side begin 2054 firmly in control of the title race.
Related:
→ Fulham 0–4 Chelsea: Jairzinho Shines on Boxing Day
→ Chelsea 0–1 Arsenal: Kretschzmar Stunner Stuns the Bridge
→ Player Dossier: McKauley Civzelis