Despite Chelsea’s dominance, Luton Town stayed in the game for long periods thanks to an inspired performance from goalkeeper Josh Keeley. The shot-stopper was called into action early and often, producing a stunning double save to deny Cole Palmer in the 11th minute. He followed that up with a spectacular full-stretch dive to push a goal-bound Reece James free-kick around the post.
Luton did offer a threat of their own through set-pieces, with defenders Benny Benagr and Odoffin both finding space in the box, but Chelsea debutant Mike Penders was rarely tested in the Blues’ goal. The woodwork played its part when club-record signing Morgan Rogers saw a thunderous volley crash against the crossbar on his home debut. Chelsea pushed for further dominance after their second goal, only to see Keeley produce a pair of brilliant saves to deny both Palmer and Joao Pedro, before substitute Jamie Gittens struck the post in stoppage time to spare Luton from a heavier defeat.