In the match against Bournemouth in round 21 of the Premier League, Cole Parmer scored as usual to help the home team take the lead. However, Chelsea could not maintain the advantage and let their opponents hold them to a 2-2 draw. With only 1 point, The Blues are satisfied with 4th place, 10 points behind the leader Liverpool.
Chelsea were on the verge of losing the game in the final minutes of injury time when Bournemouth were leading 2-1. However, captain Reece James scored a beautiful free kick to earn a valuable point for his team. This was also the first time in 2 years that James had scored in an official match.
Coach Enzo Maresca praised James, according to Football London: “I am very happy for him. He deserved it, after a difficult moment. It also brought us a point so everyone can be happy with the goal.
The goal now is for James to maintain his form until the end of the season. Only then can he contribute to the team's play.
Chelsea boss confirms Reece James' leadership role: "It's good to see, for sure. With free-kicks, James can match Palmer in quality. We decided to go for Reece and he scored. At least it gives Chelsea a point."
Reece James has had a tough time over the past two seasons. In addition to injuries, he has also been called upon to be stripped of the captaincy. Therefore, the goal was seen as a big boost for James.
The England star revealed his decision when he took the super goal: "I knew the free-kick was within striking distance. I felt that the goal was open, so I tried to finish as best I could.
There was a period when I scored quite regularly, but I haven't had that feeling for a long time, because of injuries and setbacks. I'm happy to be back in the team and to be able to contribute with everyone."
