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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
David Hytner at Stamford Bridge

Jorrel Hato kills Port Vale’s FA Cup dream in 64 seconds as Chelsea hit seven

Jorrel Hato and teammates celebrate his scoring Chelsea's first goal in their FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale at Stamford Bridge
Jorrel Hato was quick to dent Port Vale’s hopes, scoring in the second minute. Photograph: Nigel French/PA

It will take more than a thumping FA Cup quarter-final victory over the worst team in League One to ignite Chelsea’s season as it enters the defining stretch. This was, at least, a step in the right direction. Or perhaps it was just good for the club to avoid any further chaos.

The occasion was framed by Liam Rosenior’s decision to ban his vice-captain, Enzo Fernández, for the game and Chelsea’s next one, which is here against Manchester City in the Premier League next Sunday. The manager felt he had to act after Fernández’s none-too-subtle message to Real Madrid during the international break. Basically, he is bang up for joining them.

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