Chelsea eventually broke down League Two side Morecambe’s resistance with a dominant 5-0 win in the FA Cup third round at Stamford Bridge. Despite the vast gulf in league standings, the visitors held firm for much of the first half, frustrating Enzo Maresca’s team before the floodgates opened.
Reserve defender Tosin Adarabioyo broke the deadlock late in the first half with a deflected long-range strike, easing the nerves after Chelsea had struggled to find inspiration. Tosin added a second stunning effort in the second half, this time an unstoppable drive into the top corner, earning cheers of “shoot” from the home crowd with every touch.
Christopher Nkunku doubled the lead early in the second half, scoring on the rebound after his earlier penalty miss. Joao Felix, in a rare start, added two late goals, including a superb long-range effort, to cap off a dominant display.
Morecambe, currently 23rd in League Two, gave Chelsea an early scare with a spirited performance, highlighted by goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne’s penalty save and several fine stops. However, Chelsea’s class eventually told, ending their four-match winless run and securing a spot in the fourth round.
