@chelseafc: Team v Man U: Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry (c), Azpilicueta; Ramires, David Luiz; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Eto’o. #CFC
Chelsea’s fantastic performance saw them beating Manchester United by a convincing score line, 3-1. Un-doubtley Samuel Eto’o was on fire, his first hat-rick in a Chelsea shirt earned Jose his 100th BPL victory.
Manchester United started off with a quick tempo and had a good opportunity as early as the second minute. The ball fell to Ashley Young who was in a fantastic place to score, however the mighty Cech was equal to the shot.
United continued to play well, and arguably were the better team. Chelsea hit United on the counter, Eto’o was on the right and eased past Phill Jones before curling a beautiful shot into the top corner. The ball deflected off Carrick which helped the ball into the net. 1-0 Chelsea.
Minutes before the half-an-hour mark Moyes’ side were almost level. Evra unleashed a fierce shot, which rattled the side netting.
On the 45th minute Chelsea doubled their advantage, and Eto’o doubled his goal tally. Willian’s corner was cleared to Ramires who found Cahill completely un-marked. The English centre back played a perfectly weighted ball to Eto’o who was on hand to tap in. HT 2-0 Chelsea.
David Moyes’ evening went from bad to worse shortly after the beginning of the second half. Willian’s whipped corner found the head of the un-marked Cahill. His header was saved by De Gea however Eto’o was on hand to earn a deserved hat-rick. Eto’o is only the fourth player to ever score a hat-rick against Manchester United. 3-0
David Moyes tried to change the momentum of the game by introducing Hernandez. Later on Chelsea also made a sub with Jose deciding to replace Oscar with Mikel, to defend the lead and add stability to the midfield.
Manchester United did manage to get a goal back with twelve minutes left on the clock. Welbeck cut the ball back to Jones who’s curling shot was squeezed in by Hernandez. 3-1
On the 86th minute Chelsea fans across the world witnessed Nemanja Matic playing for Chelsea for the fist time since re-joining the club.
As time drew to a close United’s frustration increased. Hazard was dribbling until he was recklessly brought down by Vidic, the United captain. It truly was an awful foul, yet some would argue that it wasn’t a red card. However Phill Dowd did issue a red card, and Man U were reduced to 10 men.
Two minutes later Rafael produced a moment of pure anger as he dived two footed, studs showing at Cahill who was quite rightly furious with the challenge. The Brazilian was given a yellow card, however the challenge was well worthy of a red and perhaps worse than Vidic’s challenge.
