Chelsea went 8 points clear on the Premier League table with a victory over Hull City to secure their 18th win of the season at the Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening.
A defensive Hull side proved too much to break down for the hosts as chances were hard to come by for a majority of the first half, until Diego Costa struck in a Victor Moses cross in added time to put his side ahead with his 15th Premier League strike of the season.
The Tigers were much more better when play restarted, as they had more share of the possession for most of the half and threatened to find a much-needed equalizer as their relegation battle continued.
Conte, however, made an inspired double substitution as Chelsea lacked inspiration upfront, with Pedro and Hazard making way for Fabregas and Willian. That paid off in the end, with the Spaniard’s freekick giving Cahill an opportunity to head in the 2nd goal in the 81st minute and help seal the victory as the Blues title ambitions got a big boost.
Here is how Conte’s charges fared in the clash :
Courtois
The Belgian was on hand to thwart the little efforts Hull mustered, keeping his 13th clean sheet of the season in the process.
Rating: 10/10
Azpilicueta
Yet another impressive performance from the Spain international fullback who has never put in a wrong foot at the back this season.
Rating: 8/10
David Luiz
Kept Abel Hernandez in check all game as he came out tops of the few one-on-one tussles he had against the Uruguayan.
Rating: 8/10
Cahill
Scored the 2nd goal that helped seal off the victory and was surprisingly unhurt after his head collision with Mason that left the former Tottenham player on the ground for up to 10 minutes.
Rating: 8/10
Moses
Made a fine cross out for Costa’s opener and also was a channel for a lot of Chelsea’s attack.
Impressive performance from the Nigerian international winger.
Rating: 8/10
Kante
The French defensive midfielder put in an average performance and wasn’t precise with his passes as expected.
Rating: 6/10
Matic
Ensured things were kept in shape in Chelsea’s midfield while also helping to shield his defence for a majority of the time Hull had the ball.
Rating: 7/10
Alonso
He contributed to the attack and was also a constant threat on the flank anytime he surged forward.
Rating: 7/10
Pedro
He was tired towards the end of the 2nd half and his runs couldn’t yield any meaningful finishing per say.
Rating: 7/10
Costa
He returned to the starting XI after his omission last weekend amidst rows with the manager and immediately made his impact felt with a goal.
Almost got a brace in another splendid performance in front of goal for the Spaniard.
Rating: 9/10
Hazard
His constant attacking moves didn’t end up well as he lacked the finishing touches he is known for.
Rating: 7/10
SUBSTITUTES
Fàbregas
Came off the bench to instant impact with his free kick providing the 2nd goal.
Rating: 8/10
Willian
Wasn’t able to do much upon his introduction.
Rating: 7/10
Batshuayi
Late sub.
Rating: Not Available