Ake gives Chelsea youngsters cup victory

By

Nathan Ake’s first-half goal gave Chelsea a 2-1 win against West Ham, taking them through to the quarter-finals of the Under-21 Premier League Cup.

Driving rain meant both teams had to contend with atrocious conditions at Aldershot, where the Blues made a great start and went ahead after only six minutes.

Lewis Baker, who made his first-team debut at Derby on Sunday, went close after barely a minute when his free-kick was tipped on to the post by outstanding keeper Sam Howes.

Isaiah Brown fired in the opener before the visitors drew level when Jerry Amoo’s cross was deflected past keeper Mark Beeney by the unfortunate Ake.

But Ake then restored the lead by finishing well after being set up by Baker.

Dermot Drummy’s side are now unbeaten in 12 games, having won nine of them.

And they would have beaten the young Hammers by a bigger margin but for the brilliance of Howes, who produced fine saves to deny Baker, Brown and Jeremie Boga.

Follow West London Sport on Twitter
Find us on Facebook