Another Diego Costa goal gave Chelsea their 9th victory on the trot as they reclaimed their Top of the table status. While the first 7 victories in the run were of a team in total control who bulldozed their opponents and in turn blunted their edges and controlled the game to their liking. They might have won 3-1 against City last week but it was not a scoreline which did justice to the game.
Similarly, West Bromwich Albion gave it their everything today and blunted Chelsea completely before an individual error due to a lapse of concentration allowed Diego Costa to score a late goal and send Stamford Bridge into a frenzy.
Let us take a look a the 3 talking points from this game.
DIEGO COSTA WILL BE KEY
The transformation has almost been miraculous. A frustrated and errant striker who wanted out of the club in the summer to a player who is back to giving his 200% for the team with a smile on his face has been startling and extremely pleasing for the Chelsea fans.
He has shown the willingness to work hard and get the results instead of trying to win cheap fouls and turning them into his advantage. Already on 11 goals and 5 assists till now, it is imperative he remains fit and in-form for them. Another goal out of sheer determination and the will to score got Chelsea the 3 points. Priceless for the London Blues.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION LOSE THIS ONE BUT ON TRACK
It was a typical Tony Pulis performance as they showed how to come to an on-fire league leader’s home ground and almost blunt their attack completely. A lapse of concentration did cost them 3 points but the ability of the Baggies to transform from a uber-defensive unit to an attractive attacking unit and again back to a staunch defensive team holds much promise for the future.
They are 8th on the table and with a match against Swansea City next, have a good chance of strengthening their hold in the Top half.
SHOULD CESC FABREGAS STAY OR LEAVE FOR PLAYING TIME?
Cesc Fabregas keeps on being ignored for a 1st team spot. He covered for an injured Matic last game but was relegated to the bench as soon as the Serbian got fit. In all his cameo appearances, Fabregas has managed to show his class and effectiveness.
With his passes still as accurate and penetrative and his ability to control the tempo of the highest order, it is a pity he is wasting his time on the bench. A move abroad might a good option for the player especially Serie A due to the pace. The Spaniard has got at least 2-3 years of football at the top left in him.
