Player Ratings Cech- 7- was rarely called upon in the first half but pulled off a string of fine saves in the second. Not much he could do to stop Benteke’s clinical finishing. Cole- 6- one of the England international’s quieter games in a Blue shirt. Competent enough. Reliable in defence but did not do enough in attack. Terry 6- appeared to struggle at times with the powerful and domineering presence of Benteke, but overall marshalled his defender’s well. Cahill-5- the England centre-half had a torrid time when Chelsea played Villa away last season, and it did not look any more enjoyable this time round. Not his best performance. Ivanovic- 7- we saw two sides to the Serbian’s game here: the match-winning side, and the ugly side. Secured 3 points for his side with a powerful headed goal, but could easily have seen red for what looked like an intentional elbow on Benteke. Lampard- 8- continued where he left off from Sunday. The weekend’s goal scorer turned provider here, demonstrating how much the England veteran still has to offer Chelsea. Had a great game. Ramires- 7- a much improved performance from Sunday. The Brazilian was more his energetic self and provided his defence with a solid screening when Chelsea lost possession. Oscar-8- another brilliant showing from the Brazilian midfielder. Has taken to the role of Chelsea’s play-maker in chief like a duck to water. Involved in Chelsea’s attacking play from start to finish and always looked like causing Villa problems. My MOM. Mata- 5- so often Chelsea’s saviour last season, the Spaniard looked half the player here. Fitness seemed to be affecting his performance, tiring in the second half to be replaced by Schurrle. Hazard 8- Benteke may be the Belgian on everyone’s lips at the moment, but Hazard was a threat from start to finish. His pace and agility was a constant worry for Villa and he found himself in excellent positions thanks to some mazy runs, only to be thwarted by Brad Guzan. Ba- 5- failed to demonstrate the kind of link-up play we’ve come to expect of a Chelsea centre-forward (ala Didier Drogba). Spent much of the game in offside positions and never really threatened. Subs Schurrle- 6- showed some neat touches when introduced just after the hour mark but made little impact. Steady start to life at the Bridge Van Ginkel-4- introduced with just 6 minutes remaining so no chance to make much of an impact. Lukaku- 6- looks the best option up-front for Chelsea at the moment. Held the ball up well, showed close, tidy control and brought others into play. Finishing touch was lacking however.
Posted on: Wed, 21 Aug 2013 22:36:12 +0000
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