Chelsea took a giant leap towards securing the Premier League title as they overcame Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening, thanks to a solitary Eden Hazard strike in the first half.
United looked the brighter side right from the outset, but Radamel Falcao’s below-par confidence hindered what was an otherwise solid display from the visitors. And it was a classic Mourinho side’s performance when Chelsea got the goal against the run of play and cramped the spaces in midfield to prevent the away side from troubling the scorers.
Let’s take a look at how the Chelsea players fared last night.
Thibaut Courtois – 7
Denied Paddy McNair, but had very little to do otherwise as United failed to test the Chelsea goalkeeper.
Branislav Ivanovic – 6
Barely went forward thanks to Mourinho’s defensive tactics, but kept the screws on against the likes of Young and Fellaini who was drifting wide.
Gary Cahill – 6
Made a fine block from Falcao, but was lucky to have not conceded a penalty for tripping Ander Herrera rather clumsily.
John Terry – 7
Was involved in a constant duel with Radamel Falcao, in which the Chelsea skipper bullied the Columbian for most parts.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 6
Ever reliable at left back. Did well against a rampaging Valencia.
Nemanja Matic – 7
The engine of the Chelsea side. Ever so quick to latch on to the knockdowns from the back and bring the forwards into the game.
Kurt Zouma – 7
If Marouane Fellaini didn’t know who this guy is, he sure knows now. Combative performance in his holding role.
Oscar – 7
Delightful back heel to set up Eden Hazard. His defensive work rate would have pleased Mourinho.
Cesc Fabregas – 7
Had to chase Ander Herrera’s shadow for most parts, but looked deadly on the ball with his vision and passing.
Eden Hazard – 8
Had a lot of defensive work to do, but stuck to his task diligently and took the goal with consummate ease.
Didier Drogba – 6
Not quite the same player as he used to be, but a willing worker for the team.
Subs:
Ramires – 6
Came on for the last quarter of the game and closed the spaces in midfield.
John Obi Mikel – NA
Willian – NA
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