Chelsea win at Everton overshadowed by Emi Martinez head injury

Chelsea secured a vital 2-0 victory against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, ending the hosts' unbeaten start to the season. Pedro Neto was the hero for the visitors, netting a brace that propelled Xabi Alonso’s team into the top four.

A worrying scene on Merseyside

The match was interrupted by a distressing incident involving Chelsea goalkeeper Emi Martinez. While attempting to punch away a set-piece, the 34-year-old collided with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. Martinez required extensive medical attention on the pitch for six minutes before being taken off on a stretcher and rushed to hospital.

While Branthwaite was able to continue after receiving treatment for a cut to his nose and lip, Martinez's exit left the visiting fans and players clearly concerned. Young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders was introduced as his replacement for the final 15 minutes of the match.

The victory marked a significant turnaround for Chelsea, who had struggled at this venue in recent years. Neto’s first goal came just 43 seconds after the second-half restart, following a clever backheel from Morgan Rogers and a driving run by Jorrel Hato. He added his second in the 90th minute to seal the win.