Reaction following our 1-0 loss to the Irons.
In a bitterly frustrating afternoon for the Premier League champions, the Blues succumbed to their fourth defeat in the league this season. Once again a relegation candidate was responsible for inflicting the defeat.
Chelsea were unconvincing in our 1-0 home victory against Swansea City and lost 2-1 at Selhurst Park against Palace in October. Yesterday’s defeat serves yet another reminder of our perceived inability to perform against the ‘lesser teams’.
Despite having 84 minutes (and added time) to overturn a one-goal deficit, we were unable to convert our chances as West Ham celebrated one of their most famous victories at the London Stadium.
This doesn’t bode well for the Blues in the Champions League, with the draw being made for the knockout stages on Monday.
With Chelsea having finished second in the group, their next opponents can only be one of Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Besiktas, with this potential tough tie reflecting poorly in the Champions League betting odds.
Conceivably, our hopes of retaining the title have been diminished following our fourth defeat in the league, especially because Manchester City have the opportunity to extend their advantage to 14 points at the summit of the table.
- Our finishing was utterly woeful
During our final Champions League group-stage game against Atletico, we dominated the entirety of the game and crafted an abundance of opportunities to score, yet we failed to display sufficient ruthlessness in front of goal. Much to our collective dismay, the same wasteful nature was illustrated yesterday as only two of our 19 shots were on target.
- Morata goes down too easily
I have considerable sympathy for Morata this season. Seemingly Premier League officials consider the Spaniard to be of the same breed as Diego Costa – another Chelsea striker who infamously received unfavourable treatment from the referees in the division. Nonetheless, there are instances where the 25-year-old is too content with going to ground. He must exhibit greater strength to earn the respect of the officials.
- Christensen‘s toughest test
Our Danish centre-back has performed magnificently since returning from Germany. He has adapted effortlessly to life in the Premier League, displaying substantial confidence and class during his appearances. However, he did have trouble in trying to negate the threat of Arnautovic and Antonio. The 21-year-old was caught out by an intricate one-two for the game’s only goal.
- Time to focus on the cups?
Manchester City have been utterly relentless in the league this season, and if they succeed in triumphing against Manchester United, then it looks exceedingly likely that the Citizens will be crowned the new Premier League champions. Should we begin to divert our attention towards hopes of success in the Champions League and domestic cups?
What are your thoughts? Let us know!
