Tyrique George produced a goal and an assist to help Chelsea avoid a Carabao Cup upset against League One Lincoln City on Wednesday night, as the Blues came from behind to win 2-1 and book their place in the fourth round.
Lincoln, who had already impressed in earlier rounds, looked set to spring a surprise when Rob Street capitalised on a loose Enzo Fernandez pass to put them ahead three minutes before half-time. The Imps’ relentless pressing and threat from long throws unsettled Chelsea throughout the first half, with Filip Jorgensen struggling to command his area.
Lewis Montsma struck the post early on, while Freddie Draper nearly profited from another Jorgensen error only for team-mate Sonny Bradley to block his effort. Fernandez’s careless ball across the backline was punished ruthlessly by Street, giving the home side a deserved interval lead after a first half where they registered more touches in the Chelsea box and matched the visitors for shots.
But Chelsea’s response after the break was swift. Just three minutes into the second half, George levelled the contest with a crisp strike off the post. Moments later, the 19-year-old turned provider, threading through for Facundo Buonanotte, who weaved past defenders before coolly finishing past Zach Jeacock to complete the turnaround.
Lincoln continued to battle and nearly forced an equaliser when Trevoh Chalobah’s deflection needed clearing by Jorrel Hato, while Jeacock denied substitute Estevao late on to keep the contest alive. But Chelsea held firm, ensuring their young stars turned a nervy evening into progression.
It was far from vintage from the Premier League side, but George’s breakout display provided the decisive spark.
