Chelsea won again on Tuesday night after a 1-0 victory over the already relegated Norwich City.
At times, in the first half, the Blues seemed a little uninspired, with Norwich resolutely defending on the brink of their penalty area. However, the local team’s persistence paid off just before the break, when Christian Pulisic’s cross stitch selected Olivier Giroud in the penalty area, who headed home decisively. In the second period, Frank Lampard’s team nearly doubled their lead, but a good keeper from Tim Krul ensured that the scoring line was respectable for the visitors.
The result restores Chelsea’s four-point gap over Leicester City in fourth place and Manchester United in fifth place, however both clubs have a game on hand over the West London team.
Positive
Giroud’s continued way of scoring goals will greatly please Frank Lampard as he has an experienced shooter at his disposal who is currently in rich form for the crucial match. In addition, César Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso were especially animated, providing much-needed width and dangerous crossings. The defensive solidity was also remarkable, as Todd Cantwell couldn’t find any joy against Chelsea’s backline.
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Negative
For much of the first half, the Blues struggled to take down a stubborn defense from Norwich. Crosses were often wasted and key opportunities were wasted by people like Pulisic and Giroud. Both men would then combine brilliantly for the opening goal, but the slowness and slow nature of Chelsea’s game were visible for a period of time.
Manager rating 10
7 – I choose to play Giroud up front, who was preferred to Tammy Abraham. This turned out to be a master stroke, as the Frenchman scored a vital goal in the first half while working hard for the cause. Elsewhere, Kurt Zouma and Antonio Rudiger seemed to function much better as a defensive partnership at night, something that is sure to please the Chelsea boss. The only change that didn’t work as expected was the inclusion of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who really struggled to get into the game.
Player Ratings (1-10; 10 = Better, Players submitted after 70 minutes do not get a rating)
GK Kepa Arrizabalaga, 6 – He had very little to do, with Norwich largely reduced to long-range speculative efforts.
DF Cesar Azpilicueta, 8 – A stronghold of defensive strength, the captain was excellent in the future as well, contributing some dangerous crossovers that nearly succeeded. Directed from the front in almost every respect.
DF Antonio Rudiger, 7 years old – Surprisingly, the German defender was one of the best players on the ball, after pumping a handful of large long balls forward that found their targets. Despite some overly jealous fouls, it was a nice return to form.
DF Kurt Zouma, 6 years old – After a less convincing display at Bramall Lane last week, this was a much safer demonstration by the defender. Rudiger partnered very well at the heart of Chelsea’s baseline.
DF Marcos Alonso, 7 – With much of Chelsea’s game centered on the left channel, he was heavily involved in the team’s attack phases. Place some dangerous crosses for the talented Giroud.
MF Mateo Kovacic, 7 – He brought good energy to the midfield on the side, with effective runs forward and timely interceptions.
MF Jorginho, 7 – As the central midfielder with a more defensive attitude, he performed his duties remarkably well, turning the ball over several times. Simple, but very effective.
MF Ruben Loftus-Cheek, 6 – He was something of a peripheral figure, especially in the first half. He struggled to stamp his authority on the game.
Willian, 7 – He didn’t see much of the ball, but when he did, the Brazilian seemed very threatening. He saw several of his shots blocked or saved after cutting wide, but his overall wish was a nice addition to the game.
FW Christian Pulisic, age 7 He beat a beautiful cross for Giroud’s first game, in what was another clear example of the American’s quality. The 21-year-old almost added a goal of his own just before, forcing a good save from Krul.
FW Olivier Giroud, 8 years old – Another characteristic World Cup winner header, which showed excellent aptitude at all times. He is not known for being especially prolific, but now there are three goals in his last three Premier League starts for the veteran forward.
Substitutes
MF Ross Barkley, 6 years old He replaced Loftus-Cheek at the time stamp. He looked good in the last third, but he finally couldn’t get a clean shot.
DF Reece James, N / R – I enjoyed an excellent late cameo, bubbling up in a series of mocking crossovers.
FW Callum Hudson-Odoi, N / R – One or two flashes of quality, but it was submitted too late to have a significant impact.
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