Frank Lampard’s Chelsea side picked up their fifth league win on the trot by beating a lowly Watford side by a 2-1 scoreline. The Blues opened the scoring early on thanks to a scrumptious first-time pass by the Blues’ regista Jorginho, which was finished in style by Tammy Abraham. The goal meant that the youngster’s tally for the season went up to nine, taking him level with Sergio Aguero and Jamie Vardy on the Golden Boot charts.
The Pensioners were cruising as the second half got underway and a sleek move by the Blues was finished off by Christian Pulisic. Although the Hornets were given a lifeline when Jorginho was judged to have clipped Deulofeu in the box, the Blues defence stood strong and ensured that Lampard’s winning league run continued. The victory takes the West London outfit up into the 3rd place, where they will remain, at least until Leicester take on Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Here are the Chelsea player ratings:
Kepa Arizzabalaga – 7
Had nothing to do for whole game, but was completely helpless with the penalty as Deulofeu sent him the wrong way. Made a mind-blowing stop to deny Ben Foster an equaliser with the final kick of the ball.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7
The Spaniard put in another assured defensive performance down Chelsea’s right side and got forward well at times too. Could do with some better deliveries into the box.
Kurt Zouma – 7.5
Another commanding display from the Frenchman as he didn’t allow anything to enter the Chelsea box until the final minutes of the game. Could be hard to displace him from the side.
Fikayo Tomori – 7
Gave the ball away on a couple of occasions with some loose passes but did a good job overall. He seems to ooze confidence on the ball when he drives forward.
Emerson – 7.5
The Italian international put in an excellent display on his return to Frank Lampard’s team. He linked up extremely well with Christian Pulisic and Mateo Kovacic and was a constant attacking outlet for Chelsea.
Jorginho – 7.5
Apart from giving away the penalty, the Italian matador had a sensational game in midfield for the Blues. Not only did he control the game, he assisted Tammy with a peach of a pass for the opener.
Mateo Kovacic – 9
If anybody questioned Chelsea’s decision to sign the Croatian permanently, their worries have now been addressed. He is turning into a monster in midfield, often seen gliding past challenges in glorious fashion.
Willian – 7
Kept the Blues moving forward down the right hand side but went missing for a few periods in the game. Worked hard in defence and the veteran put in another tireless shift for Lampard’s side.
Mason Mount – 7.5
The difference of having Mount in the team is quite clear to see; without him, the Blues seem to lack a cutting edge. The Watford defenders will have nightmares about his movement.
Christian Pulisic – 8
The American repaying Lampard’s faith in him by putting up another stellar display. He chipped in with a neat little goal and showed a glimpse of class every time he got on the ball.
Tammy Abraham – 7.5
Typically rugged performance from the young Englishman, who led the line really well for the Blues. Took his goal in great style, lifting the ball over Foster to open the scoring.
Substitutes
Callum Hudson-Odoi (83’) – NA
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
Michy Batshuayi (87’) – NA
Didn’t have time to make an impact
Reece James (90+3’) – NA
Didn’t have time to make an impact.
