Keep the Blue Flag Flying High - A Chelsea Legacy

[samillyroy]

AUGUST REVIEW

Chelsea's first month under their new manager might have been expected to go a little better than it did as Chelsea dropped points at home to Norwich and Aston Villa and lost to Bayern Munich in the Super Cup. That said there were some encouraging displays and the manager is convinced they will kick on from here.

There have been a few set backs in the first few games but we have always been impressive going forward. I am really keen to ensure we keep more clean sheets in the next few games though and that is the main focus of our match preparations.

CHELSEA'S PLAYER OF THE MONTH FOR AUGUST

The Belgian has picked up where he left off last season and is fast becoming a real key player for Chelsea. 3 goals in 4 games is a great return and the Chelsea fans will be hoping for even more from him in the coming months.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW
Chelsea face a fairly difficult group, with last year's finalists Borussia Dortmund joining CSKA Moscow and Ole Gunner Solskjaer's FK Molde in the hat.

View attachment 457230

This is a tough group involving a long trip to Russia but we know how to prepare for it and are confident of our chances of progression.

CAPITAL ONE CUP DRAW, 3rd ROUND

Chelsea will play Sheffield Wednesday in the 3rd Round of the Capital One Cup, a draw which is seen to be an easy route to the next round by most pundits.

We can take nothing for granted in this game and we are looking to challenge for every avaiable trophy so I will be putting out a competitive side.

UNDER-21 and UNDER-18s Report

Chelsea's Under-21s have gotten underway with a couple of wins, Billy Clifford being a very important part of that decent start. But it is in the Under-18s where Chelsea are really impressing. the Young Blues are currently 4th with a game in hand and playing some really nice football.
Player of the month will have to go to Isaiah Brown, who joined for a nominal fee this summer from West Brom. He has managed 10 goals in 9 appearances and 4 assists to boot. A player to keep your eye on.

LOAN REPORT
With so many players out on loan, it is important we keep an eye on the progression of players who could push for the first team in future years. Most impressive this month has been Todd Kane who won the player of the month in the Championship. Todd is a local lad and many Chelsea fans would be delighted to see him push for the first team in the future.

Another player to have performed well on loan is Romelu Lukaku who has helped Everton on their way to top spot in the Premier League with 3 wins from their opening 3 games. Long may his development continue.

GOAL OF THE MONTH
[video=youtube;1kAC2Fzl4Mw]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kAC2Fzl4Mw[/video]
Ramires' strike on the counter was a wonderful move - a great pass from the impressive Eden Hazard and a nicely executed half-volley from the Brazilian.

SEPTEMBER PREVIEW
The Blues have a tough month ahead, starting with a visit to Swansea before games against Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City. We then finish with an away trip to the Emirates Stadium where we face Arsene Wenger's Arsenal side. Some good results this month would really kick start the season.

​

 

[samillyroy]

Swansea City (17th) v. Chelsea (7th)
Barclays Premier League, Matchday 4


​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - MICHU[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

The obvious threat from Swansea's team, Michu really surprised all of those in the Premier League last year with his display despite his relatively nominal transfer fee. The Spaniard has impressed enough to be called up to the Spanish national side, a real compliment to his abilities.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

The home side are without Leon Britton, Leroy Lita and Jordi Amat for this game, though they have strength in depth to cover.

Chelsea welcome Ryan Bertrand back into the squad, but are still without Tomas Kalas. Branislav Ivanovic and Marco van Ginkel also miss out after suffering injuries on international duty.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea struggled against Swansea in the last campaign, losing the Capital One Cup semi-final to them over two legs and they will be weary of the qualities of Michael Laudrup's side. Pace on the wings, strength up front, guile in the midfield, the Blues will have to be at their best to see them off.
That said, Swansea have struggled at the start of this campaign and will also need to up their game if they are to keep Chelsea quiet, as the Blues are still unbeaten at the start of this campaign.

Forgetting the Bayern game we have made an okay start to the season. We are going to kick on today because we have some real tough games ahead and we need to put ourselves in the best position possible going into those games.

 

[samillyroy]

Premier League Matchday 4
Liberty Stadium, Swansea

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]SWANSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Hazard (61, pen 85)
Terry (83)
Eto'o (89)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

​

Samuel Eto'o came off the bench to score his first Chelsea goal.

Chelsea put in a top second half-display to comfortably beat their Welsh opponents ahead of their clash against Dortmund in mid-week. Hazard was once again at his best to ensure Chelsea got all 3 points.

The first half was a nervy affair for Chelsea, potentially as a result of the two week international break. It was Swansea who had the best of the first half chances, Dyer breaking through only to be denied by Cech and Bony hitting the crossbar with a fierce header.

Chelsea finished the first half strongly though with David Luiz having a brilliant header cleared last ditch from the goal line before Oscar also slammed a header goalwards only to see it hit the crossbar.

Chelsea came out renewed in the second half, Eto'o replacing the injured Fernando Torres. He impressed throughout, chasing Mikel's through ball and shooting goalwards. He forced a great save from Vorm but Hazard was there to pounce on the rebound.

Chelsea continued to push forward and a goal glut in the last 10 minutes assured a comfortable victory. First John Terry collected Mata's corner and struck past Vorm.

Then it was Hazard's turn to get his second as he dashed into the box and was tripped by a clumsy Ashley Williams tackle. He got up quickly to slam the penalty past the dutch international keeper.

And finally Samuel Eto'o got the goal his play deserved, collecting a first time long ball by David Luiz before rounding Vorm and slotting into an empty net. A comfortable win for Chelsea ahead of some rather sterner tests.

It took us a while to get going but that was us at our attacking best. Hopefully we can take this form into the Champions League in mid-week.

View attachment 457196View attachment 457195

 

[samillyroy]

Chelsea (ENG) v. Borussia Dortmund (DEU)
UEFA Champions League Group Stage, Matchday 1

​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Lewandowski is one of the most feared strikers in Europe and despite having confirmed he will leave the club on a Bosman at the end of the season, he is still putting in some determined performances. Chelsea will have to defend to their maximum to keep him quiet today.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea are without the injured Branislav Ivanovic and Marco van Ginkel.

Dortmund will be without club captain Sebastian Kehl, full back Lukasz Piszczek and youngster Johannes Focher.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

This should be an exciting tie with both teams vying for pacy counter-attacking football. Dortmund were worthy finalists of last year's Champions League and impressed everyone around Europe with their progressive style. Chelsea will have to be at their best but our still favourites to win at home, and to go on and win the group itself. They will have to continue their form from the weekend if they are to be victorious.

Jurgen has done a wonderful job since joining BVB and we are expecting a really tough game. We will need to be at our absolute best to get anything from this game but we relish that challenge.

 

[cfc12345]

Great result against Swansea hazard is playing incredible!

 

[samillyroy]

UEFA Champions League Group B, Matchday 1
Stamford Bridge, London

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]DORTMUND[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Mata (18)
Schurrle (59)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Blaszcykowski (16)[/TD]
[TD]
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Schurrle made up for his earlier mistake by scoring the winner with an exceptional solo goal.

Chelsea got their Champions League campaign off and running with a win against last year's beaten finalists Borussia Dortmund. The Blues were confident and creative throughout and did well to come from a goal down.

Chelsea picked up where they left off with some brilliant attacking football in the opening stages, Hazard making space for two fine openings only to skew them narrowly wide.

But Dortmund drew first blood as Schurrle misjudged his first touch and laid it directly into the path of the onrushing Jakub Blaszcykowski who made no mistake from 10 yards to slam past Petr Cech.

Chelsea were not deterred though and equalised moments later when Frank Lampard's goal bound effort was diverted past Weidenfeller by the alert Juan Mata for his first goal of the campaign.

The home side continued in that vein throughout the first half, creating numerous openings and peppering the Dortmund goal with shots. They were particularly dangerous from set pieces and missed a number of opportunities thanks to Weidenfeller's expert goalkeeping

Into the second half, Chelsea took the lead on the break with an exceptional solo goal from Andre Schurrle. The German picked it up fully in his own half, ran the length of the pitch into the opposition box before skipping past Grosskreutz, megging Subotic and slamming into the bottom corner.

Chelsea looked to be comfortable winners but then saw John Terry sent off for a second yellow after fouling Robert Lewandowski cynically. That made things a little more nervy as space opened up for the likes of Mkhitaryan and sub Pierre Emerick Aubamayeng.

But in the end it was a good and well deserved victory for Chelsea as they get their Champions League campaign off to a flier.

It's a great start to the campaign for us to win at home against such a good team and it gives us confidence. Schurrle's goal was phenomonal and shows what qualities he brings to this side.

View attachment 457181View attachment 457180

 

[samillyroy]

Chelsea (3rd) v. Manchester City (13th)
Barclays Premier League, Matchday 5

​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - SERGIO AGUERO (5 games, 2 goals)
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

City's crucial player, Sergio Aguero is one of the finest centre forwards in world football and will punish any mistakes made by Chelsea's back four. Despite City's poor form he has still managed to nick a couple of goals and will be hungry for even more today.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea welcome Tomas Kalas back to fitness but are without Branislav Ivanovic and Marco van Ginkel.

Manuel Pellegrini has more significant injury worries with Manchester City missing Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure, Jesus Navas, Aleksander Kolarov, David Silva, Costel Pantilimon, Jack Rodwell and Matija Nastasic.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea have hit a good bit of form in the Premier League but will need to show their true title credentials now this afternoon. With City struggling so far it is a great opportunity to get a first 3 points at home on the board and with so many injuries in Pellegrini's side, they will be confident in their ability to do just that.
That said, they have plenty to still be weary of, with the likes of Fernandinho, Sergio Aguero and Lucas Leiva to hold off.

We are looking to continue our excellent form here and it would be great to get our first win at home against such a big club.

 

[samillyroy]

Premier League Matchday 5
Stamford Bridge, London

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]MAN CITY[/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Zabaleta (6)
Fernandinho (47)[/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Zabaleta's early goal set City on their way, but they were mightily fortunate.

Chelsea were left incredibly frustrated after completely dominating City and ending up 2-0 losers at home this afternoon. Sucker punches at the beginning of both halves saw them slip to their first league defeat of the season.

Chelsea started brightly as you'd imagine after their good recent form but were then caught sleeping at a set piece as Zabaleta collected Nasri's free kick and fired past Petr Cech.

As expected Chelsea replied and had some wonderful first half chances. Schurrle broke through several times but either hit over or found Joe Hart in his way. Fernando Torres then slipped past Lescott brilliantly only to find Joe Hart in his way when one-on-one.

David Luiz even hit the crossbar with a wonderful half-volley as Chelsea went in frustrated at their lack of success in front of goal.

And things got even worse straight after half-time as David Luiz was caught napping and Dzeko slipped a great reverse in for Fernandinho who slotted home to the disbelief of the home crowd.

The second half was entirely Chelsea bombarding Joe Hart's goal and creating opening after opening but their wastefulness and Joe Hart's brilliance kept them at bay.

Chelsea ended up having an incredible 44 shots to City's 9 but despite their domination they could not find a way past the imperious Joe Hart.

View attachment 457171View attachment 457170

 

[samillyroy]

Chelsea (BPL) v. Sheffield Wednesday (SBC)
Capital One Cup 3rd Round
View attachment 457169​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - RHYS McCABE[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

The young Scottish midfielder was a real talent at Glasgow Rangers and they were sad to see him leave. He is showing his real ability at Sheffield Wednesday and his creativity could pose Chelsea a few problems.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea are without Branislav Ivanovic and Marco van Ginkel for this game, whilst Nathan Ake is a doubt.

The away side are missing Chris Kirkland, Anthony Gardner, Giles Coke, Paul Corry and Kieran Lee ahead of this fixture.

​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

1991 winners Sheffield Wednesday face a tough ask if they are to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge today, even with the Blues' indifferent form at the start of the season. The Owls have struggled themselves and sit 20th in the Championship and few people see this game going any way except to a home victory.

We have to forget the game at the weekend, 9 times out of 10 we would have won that game comfortably so we need to show our character again this afternoon and see off Sheffield Wednesday.

 

[samillyroy]

Capital One Cup 3rd Round
Stamford Bridge, London

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]SHEFF WED[/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Terry (9)
Eto'o (72, 89)
Hazard (2)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Taylor (23)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Eto'o's brace brought Chelsea victory but it was late in coming.

Chelsea, as expected, got back to winning ways in the Capital One Cup against Sheffield Wednesday but it was a long time in coming. Eto'o's brace led the way whilst Hazard came off the bench to score his 6th of the season.

With a number of changes made to the starting line-up, it was natural that Chelsea would look a little out of balance but they got ahead after 10 minutes when Terry rose to flick home a Mata corner.

Chelsea then kept possession mostly but also looked fairly complacent. And they were punished again from a free-kick as Bertrand fell asleep to allow Martin Taylor to slam home.

That didn't seem to wake Chelsea up as they looked lethargic going forward, resorting to long shots and direct passes rather than working their way through the Championship sides defence.

In the second half, it was Sheffield Wednesday causing the problems with Helan and Antonio prominent on either wing, making good chances for Bothroyd and Nabi.

But Chelsea's quality finally told when Eto'o hit a beautiful half-volley on the turn from Mata's knock down to give Chelsea the lead.

Substitute Hazard then cut in from the left, dribbled past several players and struck past the beleagured MacDonald in goal before Eto'o finished the rout after slotting home the goalkeeper's dropped cross. Back to winning ways for the Blues.

The win was important but now we must concentrate on the Arsenal game. This match at least gives me a few selection headaches.

View attachment 457165

 

[samillyroy]

Arsenal (9th) v. Chelsea (6th)
Barclays Premier League, Matchday 6


​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY MAN - OLIVIER GIROUD (7 Games, 6 goals)
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Giroud has finally found his feet in the Premier League and looks like an expert target man. Assured on the ball and great at attacking early crosses, he has bagged 6 goals in his opening 7 games and will cause a shaky Chelsea defence plenty of problems today.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Arsenal are without England internationals Theo Walcott and Kieran Gibbs whilst Lukasz Fabianski also sits this one out.

Ivanovic is back in the Chelsea squad but Marco van Ginkel is out for a couple more weeks.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea lost in their last match but their away record is far better than their home record which is what the Chelsea manager will be hoping comes true today. It's a first derby for the rookie boss so it will be interesting to see how the occasion takes him. Both teams have had a mixed start to the season so expect a nervy affair with maybe one goal seperating the two teams.

We shouldn't have lost against City but we cannot be so cavalier in our defending any more, there can be no more slip ups if we are to challenge for the title. That starts here at the Emirates.

 

[cfc12345]

Nice win against sheff weds good luck against arsenal

 

[samillyroy]

Premier League Matchday 6
Emirates Stadium, London

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]ARSENAL[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Torres (39)[/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Torres bagged his first of the season amid criticism of the manager for selecting him.

Fernando Torres scored his first of the season with a poacher's finish to give Chelsea victory over potential title rivals Arsenal. It was a deserved victory built on a solid defensive display from the Blues.

Chelsea dropped the likes of Juan Mata and Willian for this game, instead going for a midfield trio of Oscar, Mikel and Ramires in an attempt to box in the compact Arsenal midfield and it worked in the first half.

Arsenal had a lot of possession and played nice football in front of David Luiz and John Terry but struggled to break past them, instead going wide where Hazard and Schurrle dropped back brilliantly to double up on the likes of Ozil and Wilshere.

Chelsea themselves looked dangerous on the break particularly through the pace of Schurrle, a player with so much energy. He constantly looked to break wide and meant that Arsenal were risking themselves at the back by coming onto Chelsea so strong.

And a goal came right before half time as Hazard broke brilliantly past Monreal, and whipped in a cross to the back post where Schurrle beat Sagna in the air to knock down for the onrushing Torres to sweep home.

The manager had received some criticism from pundits for failing to pick the in-form Eto'o but Torres performed a brilliant role up front by himself, constantly sweeping up and running the channels for his wing men, often when it seemed obvious he would lose out on the ball.

Chelsea stayed strong second half and Arsenal ran out of ideas quite early but they were also thankful for a wonderful save by Petr Cech to deny Mesut Ozil when one-on-one.

In the end, it was a deserved three points for Chelsea who continue their 100% away record.

I have to be happy with that display, we were tactically sound in this game and I am delighted with what Schurrle and Hazard were able to do for us. We can take heart from this performance and hopefully it ignites our title challenge.

View attachment 457144View attachment 457146

 

[samillyroy]

SEPTEMBER REVIEW

A relatively up and down month for the club ended on a high with victory over potential title rivals Arsenal at the Emirates. The Blues secured their first victory in the Champions League and qualified for the next round of the Capital One Cup but are still 5 points behind 1st placed Everton in the Premier League, meaning the home victories need to start coming thick and fast.

I think everyone can see how we are improving as a team but we absolutely have to kick on next month and try and get to the top of the table. The victory against Dortmund was a personal highlight as we came from a goal down and we played some excellent football.

CHELSEA'S PLAYER OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER

Ashley has been fantastic at left back for Chelsea this month, most notably against Arsenal where he performed vital defensive duties to shut the Gunners down. Led by example and has provided brilliant energy going forward as well.

CAPITAL ONE CUP 4th ROUND DRAW

Having progressed easily past Sheffield Wednesday in the 3rd Round, Chelsea will now face the Toon Army in what should be a more stern test of their abilities.

Newcastle are a tough team to play against and especially having to go up there will make it a difficult game. We'll play a strong team though and go for the win.

UNDER-21s and UNDER-18s Report

Dermot Drummy's Under-21s have been fairly dissapointing and currently sit 12th in their group out of 20, potentially because the majority of their players are out on loan. The most notable performers at that level have been Billy Clifford who has 6 goals in 7 starts from midfield, Nathan Ake at centre back and John Swift, who came on as a sub to make his first team debut against Sheffield Wednesday.
In the Under-18s, Chelsea are doing well under the guidance of Adi Viveash and currently sit 2nd in their group, mostly thanks to the continued excellence of striker Isaiah Brown. The player to have caught the eye most for the Chelsea coaches though is 16 year-old Jeremie Boga, a versatile attacking player who has scored 9 and laid on 4 in 12 starts for the Under-18s.

LOAN REPORT
Our most notable performers have been young Nathaniel Chalobah, on loan at Celtic, and Romelu Lukaku on loan at top of the league Everton. Both have been performing brilliantly for their respective clubs and it will be interesting to see what their role is next season if they continue their development.

GOAL OF THE MONTH
<strong>[video=youtube;Qs4x8KbHgok]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs4x8KbHgok[/video]
There could only be one goal of the month and it has to go to Andre Schurrle for his brilliant individual goal against Borussia Dortmund, typifying his importance for this Chelsea side.

OCTOBER PREVIEW
With some big games in the last month out of the way, Chelsea now get back to the nitty gritty work with games against teams they would be expected to beat. Crucially, they still haven't picked up a win at home in the league and that will have to change soon if they want to challenge for the title, so expect to see that. They also start the month with a long trip to Russia to play CSKA Moscow, before games against rivals Liverpool and West Ham.
​

 

[samillyroy]

CSKA Moscow (RUS) v. Chelsea (ENG)
UEFA Champions League Group B, Matchday 2

​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - SEYDOU DOUMBIA
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

The Ivory Coast man will be a real threat for Chelsea with his pace and power. Alongside his pacy wingers, Doumbia has the quality to give Chelsea some problems at the back if they are not at the top of their game, and already has 2 Champions League goals to his name.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

CSKA are without pacy winger Ahmed Musa and former Liverpool man Mark Gonzalez

Chelsea are without the banned John Terry who was sent off against Borussia Dortmund whilst Marco van Ginkel is still a couple of games away from full fitness.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]


Chelsea are favourites to win this one but they will have to be wary of their opponents who do possess some real quality in a number of positions. Away form is critical in the Champions League and if the Blues could get a win here it would be a really big step in the direction of qualifying for the knockout phase.

The trip to Russia is a long one so I am grateful for the Premier League moving our fixture against Liverpool to the Monday. We will prepare well for this game and I am confident that despite the travelling we can go on and get the three points here.

 

[samillyroy]

UEFA Champions League Group B, 2nd Matchday
Khimki Arena, Moscow

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CSKA MOSCOW[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Doumbia (18)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Hazard (37)[/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Hazard scored his 7th of the campaign but Chelsea were unable to dominate against their Russian opponents.

Chelsea dropped points in Group B as they were held to a draw against CSKA Moscow. Chelsea played a little negatively and as a result were not able to assert their dominance on the tie, a draw was probably a fair result.

Things didn't start well for Chelsea as they were opened up a couple of times in the first 10 minutes before Doumbia finally got CSKA's reward for early pressure, slotting home after picking Lampard's pocket.

The England man hasn't really been involved this season and his first half performance epitomised why as he constantly played balls short and was caught out of position.

Chelsea actually equalised against the run of play as Ramires broke through and Hazard tucked in the rebound from the Brazilian's shot.

But then the Blues got a hold in the game and should have gone in ahead if Willian had scored what seemed an absolute sitter. Chelsea brought Lampard off for Kevin de Bruyne but struggled to make any chances of note, and CSKA looked happy to take a draw from their more illustrious opponents.

Not a disastrous result at all, but a fairly lethargic performance from Chelsea.

I wasn't overly impressed with our display but to come to Russia and get a point is never a bad thing and hopefully we will get the three points at home.

View attachment 457099View attachment 457098

 

[samillyroy]

Liverpool (11th) v. Chelsea (4th)
Barclays Premier League, Matchday 7


​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - LUIS SUAREZ (2 Apps, 4 goals)
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Love him or hate him, Luis Suarez is a world class player and, having failed to secure a move away from Merseyside in the summer, will be ready to play today against Chelsea and look to fire Liverpool up the table. Take your eye off the ball for a split second and he will be there to make sure you pay for it.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Victor Moses is ineligible to play against his parent club for Liverpool, whilst Steven Gerrard, Daniel Agger, Jose Enrique, Simon Mignolet, Glen Johnson and Iago Aspas will all miss out on this game.


Chelsea are only without Marco van Ginkel and have an otherwise full strength squad.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea beat Arsenal away from home in their last outing and their away form has been pretty good so far which should make Liverpool worry. With their injury problems Chelsea should have too much for them but with the quality they still have on the pitch, anything could happen.

This is the third game against teams that should be around those Champions League spots this season that we've had to play in a row. We relish the challenge and I think we have enough about us to win this one today.

 

[samillyroy]

Premier League Matchday 7
Anfield, Liverpool

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]LIVERPOOL[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Schurrle (70)[/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Andre Schurrle decided a game which threatened to get away from Chelsea.

Chelsea put on another good defensive display away to Liverpool to ensure back-to-back league victories. The hosts made several opportunities and should have taken advantage of Mikel's red card, but instead they were left to rue a lack of creativity.

Chelsea played decently throughout, making a number of chances, with Hazard and Schurrle demonstrating their worth on either wing. But it was Liverpool making the early headway, Coutinho in particular looking dangerous up against Azpilicueta.

Schurrle hit the crossbar when he might have scored but it was on the break and Liverpool were soon back in control. Suarez twice got in behind but was denied first by the woodwork and then by a late David Luiz tackle.

In the second half, Mikel saw red for a second yellow offence after just 51 minutes to leave Chelsea's position looking volatile. On came Lampard and Eto'o and they provided the necessary experience and pace to turn the position in their favour.

Chelsea were playing a counter-attacking game with Hazard and Schurrle supporting Eto'o up front and it was working well, number of chances came and went for the Blues but they finally made the breakthrough.

Azpilicueta broke on the right and used Hazard as a dummy to come inside, setting up Lampard. The 35 year old slammed a firm drive goalwards and Jones could only parry it into the path of Andre Schurrle for his first league goal.

Liverpool attacked but were wary of Chelsea's speed on the break and Chelsea held on for a most vital victory.

Great performance throughout from the lads, but especially after the red card which I thought was a little bit soft and spoilt the occasion. Andre is such an important player for us and I hope he keeps this form up.

View attachment 457089View attachment 457088

 

[samillyroy]

Chelsea (4th) v. West Ham (9th)
Premier League, Matchday 9


​

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]KEY PLAYER - MARK NOBLE (8 matches, 1 goal)
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Mark Noble is an assured Premier League midfielder and has had a great start to the campaign for West Ham. A great passer of the ball and an aggressive personality, he will be giving it all he has against their big rivals today.

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]TEAM NEWS
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Chelsea are without the injured Marco van Ginkel and the suspended John Obi Mikel.

West Ham are without several key players, including Razvan Rat, Andy Carroll, Kevin Nolan, George McCartney and Mladen Petric

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD]MATCH PREVIEW
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

This London derby is always a spicy affair but Chelsea will be looking to finally grab a win at home in the league, and they will have every belief they can do that off the back of two great victories against Arsenal and Liverpool. Lampard is expected to start with John Obi Mikel and he always seems to score against his old club so expect to see his name on the scoresheet.

I've been looking forward to being involved in this derby since I took over so it should be an exciting spectacle. That said I am confident we can finally break that duck at home and get the three points.

 

[samillyroy]

Premier League Matchday 9
Stamford Bridge, London

[TABLE="width: 500"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CHELSEA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]WEST HAM [/TD]
[TD="align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Terry (44)
Ramires (52)[/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD="align: center"][/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[TD][/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

John Terry bagged to silence the away fans at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea secured their first win at Stamford Bridge this season.

Chelsea won this London derby thanks to two Juan Mata corners converted by John Terry and Ramires. Despite creating many chances in open play, the Blues were more clinical from set-pieces.

Chelsea came into this match having failed to win their opening 3 at home, losing once and drawing twice, and were therefore understandably nervous. Despite that, the Blues put on a lot of pressure and peppered the goal with shots.

West Ham had their chances in the first half, also from dead balls, with John Tomkins going closest with a header on the bar. Former Chelsea man Carlton Cole then saw his shot saved well by Cech to keep the scores level.

On the stroke of half time, John Terry who nearly went off with an injury, rose highest to slam home Juan Mata's corner and then went off to celebrate with the jubilant home fans.

And if there was any hope of West Ham coming back into it, it was crushed just after half time as Ramires struck a first time volley past Jaaskelainen to give Chelsea the three points.

With Terry having picked up a knock, young Czech defender Tomas Kalas came on for his Premier League debut and played 30 solid minutes at the back and looking tidy alongside David Luiz.

Chelsea will be happy with the three points but there will be concerns with their profligacy considering the number of chances they did manage to create in open play.

First of all, it's three points at home so I am happy with that but I would love us to start putting away some more of these chances that we are making and being a little more clinical.

View attachment 457071View attachment 457070