Matchday #3
West Brom v Chelsea
This game really had it all. An early penalty for the home team, a penalty save from Tibaut Courtois, five goals (including one from the new boy Pedro), a red card to Chelsea captain John Terry, and a spirited fightback from West Brom. But more importantly for the Blues, a crucial three points. This wet Sunday afternoon provided maybe a bit too much drama for Jose Mourinho’s men. A shaky defensive performance once again, particularly from the right flank, will be something displeasing to Mourinho and was only masked over by the brilliance of Pedro. The new signing from Barcelona was absolute quality. Slick on the ball, composed in possession, determined and mature in dispossession; Pedro was undoubtedly the little piece of quality in this game which made the difference. I’m sure every Chelsea fan will be excited to see more of him, whilst Manchester United fans will peer with thoughts of what-could-of-been.
All in all, Chelsea will want to sure up their defensive performance, and with a suspended John Terry for the next game at home to Crystal Palace, Mourinho will be forced to ring in changes. There may be a debut for new signing Baba Rahman, which could finally see Ivanovic moved from the right back position for the more suited Azpilicueta. And whilst mentioning ‘Dave’, I couldn’t think of a more deserving player to get the winning goal. Not one of the seven goals conceded in the league so far this season has stemmed from the solid Spaniard’s left flank. Let’s hope the rest of his defensive teammates become as determined to protect the Chelsea goal. A clean sheet in the next game would restore some much-needed confidence in the back four and the team as a whole.
Our first three points for the season couldn’t have been more dramatic, but the attacking performance from the likes of Willian, Hazard, Pedro and Costa is very promising and exciting. If they had been more clinical in the first half, this game could have been a lot easier. By not taking those chances, a spirited West Brom came back into the match and exposed our defensive frailties. However, Mourinho and the boys will be happy to have held on, finally get a win and get back on track. Come on you Chels.
The Blue Daze 