Sunderland vs Chelsea – Post Match

Many pundits, including myself, saw a Chelsea annihilation in store today as Chelsea (the in form team) were expected to capitalise on a frail Sunderland side. Still celebrating from their rampage of Shalke mid-week, Chelsea lacked a attacking energy; but the work-rate was still there.

Momentum was hard to come by in the opening stages of the contest for Chelsea, while this Sunderland side resembled that of a brick wall throughout the first half. Sitting deep throughout Sunderland aggravated the opposition, allowing them very few clear-cut chances in which they could penetrate and ultimately dispatch a goal or two. However, a quickly taken free-kick landed to Willian, who’s low struck shot from just outside the penalty area hit the post. 

Involved in another of there recognisable chances- Willian played in Ivanovic on the right for his forcefully executed shot to be parried astutely away by Pantilimon. Sunderland nearly replied when Lee Cattermole’s cross from the right was deflected into the path of Vergini, who then placed a somewhat hung shot over Courtois and onto the bar.

The second half signalled that Sunderland could be in for a goal, with chances being fruitful in quality, contrasting with Chelsea attacks that continually broke down in the final third. Decent chances dropped for a pesky Sunderland side as a low shot from Wickham nearly caught out Courtois, while a goal looked destined for Johnson, who positioned in the penalty area, shot wide with his wrong foot.

Nothing really made way for Chelsea as long, aimless shots were fired at goal, but nothing produced the defining goal they so required. Drogba and Remy were dispatched late on to try and rummage for a late winner. Nothing gave fruit.

Not the result Chelsea would of envisaged, but there dominion in the league lay firmly attached; there unbeaten streak continuing. Up next is Tottenham, who are wavering as a side, who will need to have a good day in order to obtain a result from the Premier League’s fortress. Stamford Bridge. Chelsea will be without Costa after he picked up a defining yellow card today, which will be encouraging for Spurs.

Draining December is a few days away,with this month highlighting their credentials in winning the league and ultimately if they will eventually succumb to a loss. Today wasn’t the best result, but this Chelsea side continue to show they won’t go down without a fight.