Cole Palmer became the first player to score four first-half goals in a Premier League game as Chelsea beat Brighton & Hove Albion 4-2 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Georginio Rutter scored the Seagulls’ first goal with a header early on, taking advantage of a series of mistakes made by Chelsea’s defence. The Blues had fallen behind.

Palmer, though, quickly assumed control and became the first player in the Premier League to score four goals in the first half.

The England international levelled the score by sweeping home Nicolas Jackson’s ball and then calmly sunk in the penalty kick.

Palmer fired a free kick into the top corner to round up his third Chelsea hat-trick in style.

Carlos Baleba reduced Brighton’s deficit by taking advantage of another error made by Chelsea custodian Robert Sanchez.

However, Palmer’s explosive first forty-five minutes came to an end when he blasted past Bart Verbruggen at his near post.

Palmer struck the post and had another attempt disallowed before the half, so he had even more opportunities.

There were no goals in the second half following an exciting first half.

But Brighton’s first defeat under Fabian Hurzeler had already done the harm to the visitors.

Chelsea has started the season well under manager José Maresca, taking 13 of a possible 15 points after falling to Manchester City on the first weekend of the campaign.