Hat-trick hero Cole Palmer inspired Chelsea to an emphatic 4-3 victory over Manchester United in a seven goal thriller at Stamford Bridge on Thursday evening.

In an incredible game that included a total of 47 shots, Erik ten Hag’s team came back from a 2-0 deficit to lead 3-2, seemingly headed for a historic triumph.

Palmer, however, had the final say as he scored the winner just moments after tying the score in the 100th minute from the penalty spot.

With only eight games remaining, United’s defeat drops them 11 points below Aston Villa in fourth place, meaning they will not be competing in Europe’s top club competition this season.

However, it propels Mauricio Pochettino’s team to the tenth position in the standings, maintaining them in the race for European spots.

Conor Gallagher, the captain of Chelsea, gave them the lead in just the fourth minute of play. Chelsea had not defeated Manchester United in twelve Premier League encounters prior to this one.

Palmer’s first penalty in the 19th minute gave the home team a two-goal lead after a wild start for Ten Hag’s squad.

However, as the match heated up, goals from Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho in a five-minute span midway in the first half brought the visitors level.

In an exciting second half, play veered wildly from end to end, but in the 67th minute, Garnacho headed in a precise cross from Antony to give United the lead.

The officials announced eight minutes of extra time, even though the visitors looked poised for a victory that would raise their spirits.

Diogo Dalot’s shove at Noni Madueke gave Chelsea a lifeline, and referee Jarred Gillett’s on-field decision to award a penalty kick was validated following a protracted VAR check.

Enzo Fernandes took a quick corner and played it short to Palmer, catching United off guard.

With the aid of a deflection, the Chelsea player blasted home past the heartbroken Onana to secure the three points and electrify the Stamford Bridge crowd.

Photo by EPA/NEIL HALL