Chelsea Thrash Southampton 5-1 as Jack Stephens Sent Off for Hair-Pulling

Southampton's captain received a red card for pulling Marc Cucurella's hair, compounding a heavy defeat for the Premier League's bottom club.

Chelsea extended their unbeaten run to six Premier League matches with a dominant 5-1 victory over Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium.
Southampton captain Jack Stephens was sent off in the 39th minute after a VAR review confirmed he pulled Marc Cucurella’s hair during a corner setup.
Chelsea capitalized on Southampton’s defensive errors, with goals from Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho.
Southampton, missing several key players due to injuries and suspensions, struggled defensively and made critical mistakes, including a misplaced pass by goalkeeper Joe Lumley leading to Nkunku’s goal.
The defeat leaves Southampton rooted at the bottom of the Premier League table, seven points from safety, while Chelsea fans celebrated the team’s resurgence under head coach Enzo Maresca.