Chelsea progress to the fourth round of the FA Cup after an good 2-0 victory over Derby. Goals from John Obi Mikel and Oscar sealed the victory for Mourinho’s men. The blues will now face Stoke City.
Chelsea didn’t start the game in the brat fashion. David Luiz was under pressure and played a back pass to Schwarzer who fluffed his lines. Shortly after that the blues started to look comfortable on the ball.
The blues continued in their comfortable style, dominating the affairs however the game was lacking any real clear chances.
The first time either goalkeeper felt worried about a shot was shortly after the half-an-hour mark. Ramires picked up the ball a fair distance away from goal, around 30 yards and unleashed a cracking strike sailed agonizingly wide.
A poor clearance from Grant put Derby in trouble, Eustace came across and ‘took one for the team’ in order to deny Oscar, he received a yellow card for his action.
After patient Chelsea play, Oscar sparked into life cutting inside and striking a fierce shot which fizzed wide of his goal.
Hard work from Eustace midfield saw him dispossess Ramires and fire a strike which was straight at Derby.
0-0 HT
Oscar was set free down the left flank but his cross intended fie Eto’o was cleared by Keane.
As Hazard replaced Essien on the 54th minute, John Obi Mikel was handed a massive privilege on his 300th appearance. Sir Obi Mikel was handed the captain’s armband.
Jose also decided to introduce Torres to the came replacing the disappointed Samuel Eto’o. Shortly after the sub, Willian curled a stunning cross which was brilliantly met by the head of Mikel, yes Mikel scored his second goal of the season. 1-0 Chelsea
It wasn’t long until Chelsea doubled their advantage. Hazard and Oscar interchanged nicely, the Brazillian’s shot from outside of the box was central however Grant was unable to push the ball out. 2-0
Fernando Torres was in a fantastic position to score, he was one on one with Grant and instead of shooting he opted to take the ball around the goalie. Grant manged to kick the ball with his stretched leg and the danger was cleared.
A minute later the Spaniard was through again this time on the right, this time the best option was to pass to the rushing Ramires however he shot which was saved.
Then Ramires had a chance to seal the victory, he attempted to shoot from 25 years out which took a wicked deflection which hit the top of the bar.
With five minutes left Derby almost scored, teenager Bennett received the ball at the edge of the penalty box, and the ball went just wide. For a moment Schwarzer thought the ball was going to hit the back of his net.
