Big Big Win for Chelsea!!!
Chelsea travelled to play Liverpool at Anfield for MW 29 of the Premier League season in a big game in terms of top four hopes. Tuchel went with a strong XI, that clearly looked to exploit the spaces that Liverpool would leave open. Mendy started in goal, Azpilicueta, Christensen, and Rudiger made up back 3 as usual. James, and Chilwell started as the wing backs clearly to handle the pace of Liverpool while also providing pace up front. Mount, and Ziyech started behind Werner, who’s pace would be key in beating Liverpool. Klopp himself had Fabinho and Alisson back for the game with the only “normal” player being Kabak. So by no means a weak side by the Champions.
Liverpool started the game on the front foot, but Chelsea grew into the game after 10 minutes. Chelsea began to exploit the spaces behind Liverpool’s high line especially down Mount, and Chilwell’s side. The persistent pressure led to a goal by Werner midway through the half but it was ruled out by VAR because his armpit was offside while his feet were well onside. A nonsense decision but nothing could be done about it. Liverpool then grew back into the game but Chelsea got the breakthrough in the 42nd minute. Kante played a pass over the top which found Mount breaking the line and he was able to reach the Liverpool box. Mount shifted onto his right foot and after making some space curled a beautiful shot into the bottom corner. Top goal and a 0-1 lead for Chelsea at half time.
The 2nd half saw Klopp throw on the likes of Chamberlain, and Jota as he chased a win. Liverpool had more of the ball but Chelsea’s backline looked confident and was able to handle what Liverpool threw at them. Chelsea had the odd chance with Chilwell getting a shot off which was deflected into Ziyech’s pass who’s shot Alisson saved again. With each ticking moment though Chelsea got closer to the win. The final whistle blew and Chelsea got their first win at Anfield since 2014 and inflicted Liverpool’s 5th successive home defeat in the league. That is the first time ever that Liverpool have had such a poor run at home.
Chelsea Team Review
Goalkeeper
Mendy get’s another clean sheet. The goalkeeper was able to conduct his box well and collected any balls over the top by Liverpool. A solid performance and that is all anyone can ask.
Defenders
Azpilicueta, Christensen, and Rudiger were brilliant as a back three once again. The clean sheet was their priority and they got that. When put under pressure in the 2nd half they didn’t lose their nerve. They played out from the back as well. Special shoutout to Christensen who looks like he is a man reformed under Tuchel. Reece James and Chilwell as the wing backs were very good as well. Handled the likes of Trent, and Robertson well. Provided the overload’s needed when attacking especially Chilwell. Top top performance.
Midfielders
Jorginho, and Kante raised some eye brows when people saw the lineup but they were brilliant as well. Top top performance by both of them and Kante was all over the pitch as usual. Jorginho controlled the tempo well and it’s good to see that we can rotate the 2 along with Kovacic. Mount was standout. The guy is too good. Pressing was amazing. He was getting back to defend, defending from the front and really causing Liverpool problems. Mount even had a bit of pace. A top top goal as well to get Chelsea the 3 points. Kovacic came on in the 2nd half to see out the game with his press releasing runs. Havertz came on for the final few minutes and played as a false 9 and looked good.
Forwards
Werner was top class. So so unlucky not to get his goal. His pace was a constant issue for Liverpool and his runs behind the space caused Liverpool to always stay back a bit. Might not be getting the goals but he is trying very hard. Ziyech was good and got better in the 2nd half. He began to find space on the right and was able to cross some brilliant left footed passes. Good to see Tuchel keep him in the team and him play well. Pulisic did come on in the 2nd half but didn’t get a chance to dribble at Liverpool. His ability to win headers was crucial though and that helped Chelsea see out the game.
Manager
Top tactical performance by Tuchel. Winning away at Anfield for the first time since 2014. Tuchel is taking it one step at a time and he is making good decisions. Brilliant game.
Chelsea enter into the top four 3 points behind Leicester. Next up is a visit by Everton who sit right behind us in the table. Another big game. COME ON CHELSEA!!!
Park The Bus 