Llion and Chidge provide their thoughts following an underwhelming afternoon for the Champions.
For a game that has historically produced such infectious excitement – especially at Stamford Bridge – today’s fixture was comparatively dull. Uncharacteristically, Arsenal were incredibly compact and frustrated us at times with their solidity – a stark contrast to their away defeats at Stoke City and Liverpool.
Meaningful goal-scoring opportunities were at a premium for us, which in hindsight made Pedro’s missed chance even more infuriating. Contrary to the predictions of several members of the media, the game was far from comfortable, and Arsenal were displaying enough intent to manufacture opportunities for themselves. We were rather fortunate that Lacazette had failed to capitalise on the rebound with the entirety of the Chelsea goal at his mercy, and greater awareness from Mustafi could have given the Gunners a 1-0 lead.
Much to the dismay of Antonio Conte (and everyone associated with Chelsea) we registered our third red card in as many games against our North London rivals. A moment of ill-discipline and recklessness from David Luiz saw the Brazilian sent off with only minutes remaining in the match.
Our five key points!
- Pedro’s missed opportunity was a crucial moment
During the 21st minute of the game, Fabregas displayed his magnificent passing ability to provide Pedro with a glorious opportunity to break the deadlock. Having received possession from Cesc’s ingenious pass, Pedro looked far too indecisive as he contemplated his finish. Ultimately, his indecision proved costly as we failed to create a chance of equal worth throughout the remainder of the game. The complexion of the game would have been altered entirely had Pedro seized his opportunity.
- Michael Oliver’s questionable decision-making
The Englishman has attained a reputation of being one of the most dependable referees in the division. Nonetheless, he was far too inconsistent today, failing to punish challenges that he’d previously deemed worthy of fouls. While it’s difficult to argue with the decision to send David Luiz off, the yellow card that he gave the Brazilian for an overhead kick was quite baffling. He also ignored several fouls that were made against Morata – who was seemingly targeted by Mustafi and co – yet the Spaniard attained the yellow card when he voiced his frustrations. A poor display from the ref.
- Our ill-discipline is concerning
Chelsea flaunted one of the best disciplinary records last season, having played the entirety of the campaign devoid of a single red card. Unfortunately, we’ve failed to emulate the success that we attained during the last term. Despite having played only five league games, we’ve already amassed three red cards. Additionally, it seems that we’re unable to play the Gunners without having a man sent off. This is the third game in succession that we’ve received a red card against Arsenal.
- Bakayoko’s impact was palpable
Tiémoué Bakayoko reinvigorated the team when he was introduced as a substitute. His impact was instantly recognisable as he retrieved possession before embarking on an advancing run towards the Arsenal box. Without question, his defensive qualities are apparent, yet it’s his capacity to drive the ball forward and dominate proceedings at the heart of the pitch that ensures he’s such a competent player. At the age of 23, his potential is vast, and there is considerable cause for optimism while looking towards the future.
- The service to Morata was limited
On several occasions, the Spaniard was entrusted to try and engender an opportunity from a half-hearted or misplaced long ball. It seemed that the Spaniard spent the majority of the game chasing the ball and competing in physical duels with the Arsenal defence. If we’re to utilise his undeniable proficiency in front of goal, the quality of his service needs to improve vastly.
Chidge’s thoughts
First half
I was surprised that Rudiger and Bakayoko didn’t start. We started very well and looked the better side then seemed to run out of ideas – Arsenal remembered how they beat us recently and started pressing Alonso, Willian and Fabregas in particular. Worse, they appeared to be dominating us physically – Morata needed to challenge his opponents physically, rather than going to ground easily.
In truth, we were lucky to go in at 0-0 – Pedro blew his lines on our best chance – Arsenal hit the post and looked dangerous, and to an extent were overrunning us before the halftime whistle. We lacked Eden Hazard’s creativity.
Second half
The decision to reward Luiz a yellow card was questionable, which was reflective of the poor game that Michael Oliver was having. Morata must ensure that he’s more prepared to compete physically. Nonetheless, the decision to book the Spaniard having been fouled all afternoon was dreadful. Cesc Fabregas was far from his best today and from where I was sat Luiz’s red card appeared to be a fair 50:50 (although I’m obviously biased). Ultimately, it was a fair result in the end – neither side did enough to win it, and neither side deserved to lose. We can’t use the poor officiating to excuse our performance.
A frustrating afternoon for the Blues, let us know your thoughts!
