Chelsea earns huge win in Champions League race
Marc Cucurella kept Chelsea's hopes of earning UEFA Champions League qualification alive as his goal earned a huge 1-0 win over Manchester United.
Cucurella popped up with a 71st-minute header to move Enzo Maresca's team up to fourth on the Premier League table after what looked like being a frustrating night for the hosts.
After Aston Villa's victory over Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the day, Chelsea knew the importance of a win to ensure a top five finish was still in its hands on the final day.
Harry Maguire thought he had steered United into a 16th-minute lead when he planted Bruno Fernandes's cross home, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a video assistant referee (VAR) review.
Chelsea responded promptly to that disallowed goal, with Reece James's stunning volley from the edge of the box clipping the left-hand post from just outside the area.
The Blues then believed they had the chance to take the lead just after the hour when Tyrique George tumbled under the challenge of Andre Onana inside the box.
Chris Kavanagh awarded a penalty but was sent to the monitor for an on-field review and changed his decision, but Chelsea did get themselves in front soon after.
James's neat turn and cross was met powerfully by the head of Cucurella for his fifth Premier League goal of the season, but the result should have been out of sight.
Noni Madueke squandered a glorious chance moments later, collecting Cole Palmer's pass but skewed his strike wide of the mark, but Chelsea was able to hold on for the win.
The result moved Chelsea up to 66 points, level with Aston Villa and Newcastle United. The Red Devils, meanwhile, stay 16th.
