PlayBeautiful

This was our first game in 2013 against Arsenal in the London derby. In the first half we were put on the score sheet by a lovely finish from Juan Mata. Our #10 consistently shows us what a fine, first touch he has to have us go up a goal. Credit has to be given to Azpilicueta for the crosses he continues to provide. Ramires being brought down by Szczesny in the box led to our second goal. Lampard took the penalty and totaled his goal-scoring tally to 195. It was more of a priceless moment to see the camera on Roman’s face at the Bridge. I hope he’s keeping his eye on Super Frank. The closing of the first half showed Chelsea were dominating in attack and overall had better pace against Arsenal. To add to that, our disciplined backline caused problems for Walcott. However, it has been a challenge for Chelsea to keep this momentum going into the second half. This really was a tale of two different halves. After ending a 2-0 lead verses Southampton into a draw, it would‘ve been a blow to go down that road again. I was hoping something like that wouldn't happen, but it almost did. Arsenal came into second half boasting a stronger energy in the attack. It was in the 58^th minute Walcott dribbled past our defenders and popped a goal over Cech. It took Arsenal 15 minutes into second half to gain control over our midfield. Needless to say, I was desperate to see another goal from Chelsea. This wouldn't be a Chelsea post, if I didn't mention something about Torres. I only saw Torres wake up when Ba was warming up on the sideline. In the last 10-15 minutes of the game, there were some moments of Torres showing quality pace, but his ineffective 2^nd touch lost us the ball. He had his usual misses and apart from that there is nothing else to say about him. Arsenal were a different team than the one we saw first half. Unfortunately, so were we. We gave the ball away and at times looked uninspired. The last 5 minutes of stoppage time had me holding my breath. Three consecutive corners were given to Arsenal and we were playing a scrappy game. It was Gary Cahill’s superb, defensive abilities that caused us to cling onto the win at Stamford Bridge. Our recent performances show we do not have the best home form here. I think we have to address how to respond to the opposing side’s pressure in our midfield and make better decisions. Chelsea had the mental edge at the start of the game, but somehow managed to lose it. The 2-1 full-time score was reminiscent of our win at the Emirates. This means we beat Arsenal both home and away this season. I appreciate the fans who showed amazing support even with the snow and cold. Tonight London is Blue and it will stay that way.