A dogged performance from Chelsea saw us break our Goodison Park jinx and win 1-2 in a match that Everton dominated for large periods. The win places Chelsea in a good position given that we have a game in hand.
First half
Everton took the lead in a minute with their first attack. Hazard lost the ball and Everton broke forward. Jagielka got the cross in and it was met by Anichibe, but Cech saved. Pienaar made no mistake off the rebound and Everton took the lead. Everton came close to adding a second when Jelavic hit the post from a free-kick in the 8th minute. Chelsea created their first real chance in the 27th minute when Mata’s shot was comfortably saved by Howard. Everton continued to dominate until the 41st minute when Lampard scored. Ramires crossed with his left foot and Lampard met the ball with his head. The half ended 1-1, Chelsea clearly the happier team at the interval.
Second half
Turnbull replaced Cech in the beginning of the 2nd half due to Cech feeling a niggle in his ankle. Chelsea pressed on looking for a goal and Torres had 2 good chances in quick succession that he missed, the 2nd of the chances being an offside effort. Luiz shot from distance 2 minutes later but the shot went over. Torres did well to shoot from distance and force a save from Howard. At the other end Osman tested Turnbull but Chelsea’s 2nd-choice ‘keeper did well to save. Chelsea were patiently probing and found a 2nd in the 72nd minute through Lampard. A bit of mayhem in the box saw Mata get a shot off that was saved, but Lampard tapped in from close range and Chelsea had the lead. A flurry of substitutions from both teams ensued, but the score remained 1-2 to Chelsea. Chelsea didn’t play awfully well, but we’ll take the 3 points.
Mata was terrible today, his passing game was absolutely awful.
Torres had a couple of shots but once again the hunger seems to be gone
We were very lucky
Am still saying and very sure Torres has not really come back to his fulness, he misses a lot of good chances which ordinarily striker or even defender will convert it. Torres still, in most of time remain anonymous in most of our game.
We were undeserved winners but I’ll take the three points gladly. I think Lampard took Benitez’ warning seriously that he should show the club why he deserves another contract. His performance was priceless…the Lampard of old who successfully ghosts into the box and scores.
Lampard and Cole should play for Chelsea until their retirement,there are some matches where veterans are needed
Sign them up Lampard and Cole. CFC 4ever.
Ba is a gr8 guy every manager would luv 2 have in his team he’s test and trusted am sure newcasstle will regret d sells just as wenger did on RVP.up chelsea!!!!!!!