It was a late winner at the Bridge and Chelsea’s persistence finally paid off, with Ashley Cole netting a late winner. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in their 1-0 victory.
Petr Cech: 7
Had a decent game overall and Produced a couple of good saves in the first half.
Branislav Ivanovic: 5
Totally an off day for Ivanovic. Though, involved in the winning goal the Serbian had a poor game until that. Was exposed defensively and gave the ball away cheaply a number of times.
Gary Cahill: 6
Solid enough at the back and used the ball well.
David Luiz: 7
Confident as ever on the ball but these days also looks a seasoned Premier League centre-back. So much so he was comfortably able to deal with the awkward Peter Crouch.
Ashley Cole: 8
Was having an excellent game even before popping up with his late goal. Defensively solid and offered a great outlet going forward on the left.
John Obi Mikel: 5
Too easily dominated in midfield. Is sometimes left with much ground to cover when partnering Frank Lampard but that was not the case alongside Ramires, yet he was still poor.
Ramires: 6
Impressive in central midfield in the first half but was less influential after the break.
Juan Mata: 7
Looked to have benefited from his recent rest. Got better as the game went on and produced a great moment of skill to set up Cole’s goal.
Oscar: 7
Exciting to watch and will worry even the best defences in the Premier League. Lacks composure at times but that will come. Troubled Stoke with a couple of fine runs and was unlucky not to score before Chelsea eventually broke the deadlock.
Eden Hazard: 5
Brilliant on his day, but struggled to get into this game before being substituted.
Fernando Torres: 5
Has lost momentum after a hugely encouraging start to the season. Squandered an excellent chance in the first half and badly needs a goal to restore his early-season confidence.
Victor Moses: 7
Again did well after coming on as a substitute. A real threat down the right and produced a fine run and pass to Oscar soon after coming on. Is really pushing for a starting place.