A frustrating evening for many Chelsea faithfuls as Palace made sure the Blues dropped points once again, leaving them winless in four.

Palace have now taken secured back to back 1-1 draws against Chelsea this season.

Despite the disappointment at not recording a win, many Chelsea fans were gladdened at the inclusion of 18-year old academy graduate, Josh Acheampong. 

Fed up of the ‘disaster-class’ from Axel Disasi in recent games (Everton and Ipswich), Enzo Maresca’s hands were pushed and handed Josh his first league start today.

Playing alongside a fellow academy graduate in Levi Colwill, Josh started as the right centre back and was handed the task of man-marking Crystal Palace’s star-man and maverick Eze, going to further showcase how much trust Maresca has in the 18-year old.

Despite starting for the first time, Josh barely looked flustered as he brought his usual calmness in possession and his confidence remained on show as he consistently carried the ball to change the picture of the game while also creating space for his teammates.

Josh’s ability to beat the opponents press proved crucial on occasions as Palace set-up early in a mid/low-block, looking to frustrate Maresca’s men.

The 18-year old often drove with the ball, aiding the team to further pin their counterparts and opened up passing lanes that were previously blocked. 

Out of possession, Josh often held his own too despite coming up against Premier league proven attackers like Eze and Mateta. 

Sweeping up any danger(s) down the right side of Chelsea’s defence, Josh Acheampong won all his ground duels while also recovering the ball 5 times.

Considering this was his first start, it was no surprise Josh struggled aerially against a target-man like Mateta when faced against the Frenchman but that’s clearly a part of the game the 18-year old is expected to improve on as time goes by. 

Considering Maresca’s recent comments on Fofana’s injury woes, there just might be a chance Josh Acheampong keeps his spot for the foreseeable future.