Only three days ago Chelsea were in ecstasy after getting their hands on the League cup. Today their attentions turned back to their Premier League, West Ham hoping to capitalise on any post-cup hangovers the visitors might have.
This was always going to be an interesting game as Chelsea of late had been squeezing results, West Ham a comparatively competitive team, succumbing to a dire result to Crystal Palace on the week-end which they would want to forget quickly.
As the action kicked of, it seemed lack-lustre from Chelsea throughout the contest, a goal from the flourishing Hazard in the 22nd minute was the only cause of celebration, as the performance from West Ham was certainly destined for a goal.
Chelsea started the game the most sprited, as a clever cross from Oscar found Costa, who scuffed over for a goal kick. Interestingly though, this early on-set from Chelsea was quickly abolished as Kevin Nolan inspired a West Ham assault. A string of half-chances were wasted by the class of West Ham; Sakho fluttering on his on-set of chances.
It was a focus on defence rather than attack, as Chelsea’s resolute defence kept West Ham at bay. Yet, after West Ham looked the likeliest to score, Chelsea pounced through the counter-attack, Ramires claiming the ball and floating it across expertly for Hazard to head in; an unlikely way for the Belgian to score.
Costa could of got Chelsea another goal had it not been for some great defending from Jenkinson, a fantastic sliding tackle that nicked the ball from Costa’s feet and kept West Ham in the contest.
At the game progressed, the contest swept back and forth like a see-saw, although it didn’t quite reach wrecking ball qualities. However, Chelsea nearly inflicted another dent as some eye-catching poise and strength led to another Chelsea charging forward through Hazard, his pass finding Ramires, his effort slicing the post.
West Ham still pressed with a tactical spirit – and long balls. But nothing gave fruit. Courtois in goal like the unstoppable hangman, he wasn’t going to get beaten today. Another three points was music for a jubilant Mourinho who was looking forward to a, “lie-in”, the next morning and a two day break for his players to recuperate after theirs manic week. PSG await them at home in the Champions League next week – no chance to dwindle.
Conclusively, this game had the ability to be won by both teams, Chelsea though showed why they were top of the league: they know how to win games.
I thought Chelsea showed quality through individual players such as the glittering Hazard, but overall lacked any fireworks. It must be said that West Ham responded professionally to a humbling display days ago, using that torrid display to fuel a more inspirational performance.
The ability to win games outlines their title credentials, with the wolf-pack of Manchester City going to have to win constantly now to bridge the rising gap between Chelsea, and themselves, the platform.
Edward
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