A solitary second-half goal from Spanish left-back Marcos Alonso turned out to be the difference between Chelsea and Newcastle United on the night. The game that ended 1-0 saw the home side dominate possession right from the opening knockings of the game, with the Magpies simply settling into their shape every time they lost the ball. Although the Blues did find it extremely hard to break them down, the persistent rotation of the ball from side to side by Jorginho, eventually took it’s toll on the Newcastle players.
Let’s take a look at the Chelsea player ratings from what was an excellent game of football.
Kepa Arizzabalaga – 7
The Spanish keeper wasn’t really called into action on too many occasions. Despite this, after the visitors introduced Andy Carroll, he was required to take command of his box, and he did it with aplomb.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 6
Although the Spaniard might be one of the best right-backs in the world from a defensive perspective, going forward, he still has a lot of work to do. His crossing wasn’t up to par on the night, although he linked up well with Willian.
Kurt Zouma – 7
Strong and physical display in the heart of defence. The Frenchman was rarely troubled by the Newcastle attackers, and he even stepped up and helped the Blues move forward on every possible opportunity.
Fikayo Tomori – 6
The youngster seemed a tad rattled during periods in the game, but his ability to carry the ball forward from the back makes him a huge asset. Despite Joelinton’s physical presence, was largely untroubled.
Marcos Alonso – 8
The Spaniard only came into the side because of the injury to Emerson, but he seems to be making a fairly strong case. He scored the Blues’ only goal on the night and was a constant threat to the Magpies down the left.
Jorginho – 9
Undoubtedly the Blues’ best player on the night, the Italian midfield commander didn’t seem to misplace a single pass over the course of the tie and was integral in keeping the Chelsea side moving forward.
Ross Barkley – 5
The Englishman was subbed off a few minutes before half-time because he felt a strain in his leg. Although he might’ve been able to carry on, Lampard wasn’t looking to take any risks and threw on Mateo Kovacic.
Willian – 8
The Brazilian was a constant live wire for the Blues, and despite his rising age, he was the most energetic player on the pitch. Obviously eager to retain his place in the side, Willian seemed to be absolutely everywhere.
Mason Mount – 6
Had a solid chance to score in the first half but shot straight at Dubravka’s right arm. Wasn’t able to impact the game as much as he would’ve liked, partly because the Magpies offered the Blues no space in their half.
Callum Hudson-Odoi – 7
The teenager seemed to be in a mischievous mood in the first-half, trying the odd trick or flick. Although he got down to the nitty-gritty part in the 2nd period, his youthfulness and energy was a constant threat to the Newcastle defence.
Tammy Abraham – 7
Although the Englishman wasn’t able to score, his influence on the team is apparent. Strong with his hold-up play and smart with his passes, the youngster came close to scoring when he hit the bar with a lunging header.
Substitutes
Mateo Kovacic (43’) – 8
The Croatian, alongside Jorginho, in the heart of the Chelsea midfield, is something that Blues fans need to get more excited about. His ability to simply stroll out of dangerous situations is second to none.
Christian Pulisic (64’) – 7
The American winger came on in place of Mason Mount and made an immediate impact. His ability to hold onto the ball until the final second before releasing it was on display again today.
Reece James (90’) – NA
The youngster didn’t have the time to make an impact.
