By Adam Stephens

Sutton United assistant manager Paul Telfer praised his team’s performance despite a 4-0 defeat to Premier League giants Chelsea.

More than 2,500 fans packed Gander Green Lane last night to watch a Chelsea side that included Cristian Cuevas, who signed for the Blues yesterday for a reputed £3m.

United chairman Bruce Elliott was upbeat despite the result, announcing takings of at least £20,000 from four glamour friendlies.

As for Telfer, he was more delighted with the team than the coffers.

He said: “Given that we were up against a team many of which would be able to play in the Premier League I thought we did well.

“We said before the game that it would be very much a training and fitness exercise in which we wouldn't see a lot of the ball, and the main point of the evening was to attract a good crowd and to make some money for the club.

Your Local Guardian: CFC

Smooth mover: Action from Sutton United v Chelsea    SP78021

“Now we've had the games that were intended to make some cash, it's important in the three we've got remaining that we now see some progress in the way we're playing prior to the start of the league season.''

Chelsea took the lead just before half-time when Alex Kiwomya incepted a pass across the penalty area by Mitchell Nelson to beat Tom Lovelock, and 12 minutes after the break, Izzy Brown made it 2-0.

The Blues went onto score twice in the last six minutes, Ulises Davilla poacher’s finish made it three, and a low shot from John Crisp effort sealed the win.

Ali Fuseini came closest for Sutton almost chipping the Chelsea keeper Ben Killip.

Your Local Guardian: Fans

Flocking: More than 2,500 fans filled Gander Green Lane for the visit of Chelsea   SP78021