Chelsea continued their record breaking spree with another frighteningly efficient win over Bournemouth at the Stamford Bridge. This makes it their 12th win on the trot and it is hard to see from where their next dropped points are going to come. Conte’s 3-4-3 has made them impenetrable and the recent calls of this year being a one-horse race does not seem so ludicrous all of a sudden. With Kanté and Costa missing for the game, there was suspicion and hope from some quarters that the Blues would falter in the absence of their main protagonists of this season. But every presumption was laid to rest with the final outcome and two goals from Pedro either side of an Eden Hazard penalty saw them maintain their lead at the top.
Let us take a look at how the Chelsea players performed on the day.
COURTOIS- 6.5/10
A typical day in goal for the Chelsea custodian. Had precious little to do throughout the 90 minutes but displayed his concentration level by denying Afobe right at the end. Almost certain for the golden glove, though!
AZPILICUETA- 8/10
Another faultless outing by the consistent Spaniard. Has hardly put a foot wrong this year. Was strong in challenge and was aware of his surrounding to make a tackle to deny King a certain goal.
LUIZ- 6.5/10
Had a job on his hands in dealing with King. The tussle was interesting to watch and was not one-sided by any means. But Luiz handled things fairly well and a deserved a clean sheet.
CAHILL- 6.5/10
A quiet day in office but was pro-active with the ball at his feet.
MOSES- 6.5/10
Was up and down his flank throughout the match and showed strength in possession but his final bass was missing which might hinder his end product this season.
ALONSO- 5.5/10
Average in defence and attack. Tried hard, though.
FABREGAS- 8/10
Both his sides were on display today. His defensive frailties were evident from his tackling and tracking back but he more than made up for it with his distribution and attacking impact.
MATIC- 5/10
Not his best day. Was slow and late into tackles. And had a moment to forget where he almost gifted Bournemouth a chance to score.
WILLIAN- 7.5/10
A better second half display. His chemistry with the fellow attackers was not the best but his influence grew with the game.
HAZARD- 9/10
Absolutely sublime from the Belgian. Involved in everything good by Chelsea. Dribbled and passed and weaved his way through defenders. And surprisingly his hold-up play was also surprisingly good.
PEDRO- 9/10
Continued his revival and is in the thick of things now. Scored a brace and fully deserved it.
SUBSTITUTES
