Jordan Henderson Scores First Career Free-Kick in Chelsea’s Bournemouth Rout
Jordan Henderson marked his Chelsea home debut with two goals, including the first direct free-kick of his career, as the Blues swept Bournemouth aside 5-1.
The 36-year-old had scored only twice across the previous four seasons before his 70-minute display against the Cherries. His second goal, Chelsea’s fifth, came after he took responsibility for a set piece ahead of Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers following a period of work with set-piece coach Austin MacPhee.
Five-goal Chelsea display
- Henderson opened the scoring after 65 seconds, driving a 20-yard effort against the post and into the net.
- Rogers doubled Chelsea’s advantage shortly afterwards.
- João Pedro struck 40 seconds after the restart to make it 3-0.
- Evanilson pulled one back for Bournemouth, but Chelsea continued to attack.
- Pedro scored his second of the afternoon before Henderson curled a direct free-kick into the corner to complete the 5-1 win.
Set-piece preparation pays off
Henderson used the three-week international interval to practise his shooting with MacPhee, continuing that work during the past fortnight at Chelsea’s training ground. The former Liverpool captain said the coaching staff and several team-mates had given him the belief to take the opportunity.
He explained that MacPhee had made clear that Henderson would take the free-kick, despite Rogers wanting the chance. Palmer, meanwhile, asked which corner the group would be celebrating in. Henderson said he appreciated Palmer and Rogers allowing him to take the kick after the work put in on the training pitch.
The midfielder’s double came alongside another influential attacking showing from Palmer, Rogers and Pedro. Henderson praised the trio’s quality but placed particular emphasis on their effort away from the ball.
He said Chelsea’s defensive work gave the side a base from which to break quickly, with the attacking players possessing the pace, strength, skill and finishing required to punish opponents in transition. While the goals would draw attention, Henderson said their willingness to work for the team had impressed him most.
