Palmer had his biggest impact on a game that was so important for Chelsea, who are now only behind fourth-placed Newcastle United in goals scored (62 vs. 66) with a plus-21 goal difference.
Their next Premier League game will be against Tyneside on May 11th, which is exactly when they will be there.
Palmer produced a flawless performance, recording the most shots (55) and chances (44) with the most passes that came close to the final third (13), and also had the most touches in the opposition box (eight) of any Chelsea player.
Even taking into account his leaning spell, his worth is further strengthened by the fact that, for Chelsea, he has now scored 37 goals in 67 league games, placing him 10th overall in the league in all-time.
Palmer responded, “I just felt normal.” I went three months without scoring, which only serves to give me more fight and drive to do more for both the team and myself.
It seems as though you’re letting your team down when you score but don’t. I still believe I have strong mental health. I take pride in supporting the team, but I’m not happy if I don’t.
“The trolls, idiots, and other stuff are present in the social media today.” That is not something I pay any attention to. I’ve scored and I’m pleased, but there’s only one, so I need to keep improving and aiming for higher levels.
Head coach Maresca remarked, “We see him every day on the training ground and he is always the same, working hard and appearing happy.
He complains that he is unhappy when he doesn’t score because he only wants to help the team and the club.
Moises Caicedo, Palmer’s teammate, joined the chorus of applaudation when he said: “He deserves it. Quansah brought him down for Chelsea’s late penalty. He is putting in great effort to achieve goals. He had a chance, and he won.
“Cole is a fantastic guy. We are so proud of him because he always trains hard. Even when he didn’t score, he still helps us a lot. He deserves everything, and he is a great person.
How significant a victory for Chelsea was in the celebrations at Stamford Bridge for both the fans and players, as well as for Palmer. As the forward vanished under a collection of blue shirts, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez ran the length of the pitch to join in the scenes of elation.
If it turns out to be the day Palmer finally rediscovered his natural talent, it comes at a perfect moment for Londoners.
As Chelsea contemplate defining games against those who compete with them for those prized spots, a place in the Champions League will make life much simpler for Maresca and everyone there.
On May 25, the final day of the campaign, they will travel to Nottingham Forest, which is currently three points behind in sixth place. Chelsea’s destiny will be determined by these events for the upcoming season.
