“Terrible” – Pat Nevin brands Chelsea play as “under 11s stuff” after Palmer moment in Newcastle draw | OneFootball

Former Blue Pat Nevin has blasted Chelsea for what he described as “under-11s play” in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Newcastle.

The Blues fought back from a terrible first half performance in which they were 2-0 down thanks to a brace from Nick Woltemade.

However, Enzo Maresca clearly read the riot act at half time, and the Blues came out a different side, with Reece James firing home a brilliant free kick, whilst Joao Pedro scored the equaliser.

Pat Nevin heavily criticises Chelsea first half moment vs Newcastle

Whilst the second half performance was something to be proud of given the fight and character the team showed, the first half can’t be ignored.

Chelsea once again looked unprepared for a big away game, and were second best in every department as Newcastle came out the blocks fast.

Palmer struggled to make an impact against Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Both goals the Blues conceded were really poor from a defensive stand point, but there was one moment in the game which really annoyed Nevin.

“Chelsea were beginning to dominate, but that question about arrogance, Cole Palmer went down and it’s up to the referee to stop the game,” he said on commentary for the BBC.

“But Chelsea just stopped! This is under 11s stuff.

“You carry on until the referee stops the game. Terrible again from Chelsea.”

Cole Palmer still getting back to his best

Palmer was once again named in the starting line-up as he continues to build his fitness after returning from a groin injury earlier this month.

Truth be told it appeared Palmer wasn’t really ready for a big physical away game, and the England international had very little impact on proceedings.

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However, Palmer played over an hour, which will certainly benefit him, but it was a game in which the majority of Chelsea’s attackers struggled.

The Blues will hope another week of training will have Palmer more ready for next weekend’s game against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.