After looking at the starting lineup of the blues for the big game against Liverpool at Anfield, no one would have even gave Chelsea a chance for the match. Rehman, Cahill and Mikel against the likes of Coutinho, Firmino and Sturridge was looking like a recipe for disaster. But against all odds, Chelsea were the better team on the night in every department and hadn’t been for a Begovic gaffe in the dying minutes, the blues would have snatched all three points at Anfield.
Eden Hazard scored a wonderful solo goal and gave Chelsea the lead in the first half. Liverpool created chances, but their shooting was hayward and Begovic had just one good save to make from Daniel Sturridge. It looked like the players were saving themselves for the Europa League final next week and played not up to the standards that have been set by Jurgen Klopp. Christian Benteke came on as a sub and secured a draw which enables the reds to still finish sixth on the final matchday.
The only baffling thing that raised questions about Hiddink was when he had Miazga or Tomori in the squad then why play Mikel at center back. It just doesn’t make sense and is an indictment of everything Hiddink has claimed to be. The youth are not just to make up numbers in the first team squad and this was the perfect opportunity to test them at the biggest stage. Let’s take a look at the players’ ratings from the game:
1. Asmir Begovic: 6
Made one fine save and some brilliant clearances and looked assure between the posts.
2. Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
The typical Azpilicueta display. Solid in defense and contributing to the attack whenever needed.
3. Gary Cahill: 6.5
Made his case for the Euros after a decent outing at Anfield.
4. John Obi Mikel: 6
Gradually came into the game. Looked nervous at the start, but as the game progressed, his performance improved.
5. Baba Rehman: 6.5
Looked solid in defense and can be Chelsea’s solution for years to come. One fine block in the first half which could have given Liverpool the lead.
6. Nemanja Matic: 6
Broke many attacks and kept the tempo of the game running at a good pace.
7. Cesc Fabregas: 6.5
Passing was brilliant and made some fine tackles too to stop Liverpool’s attacks.
8. Willian: 6
Not at his usual best. Subbed in the second half to a standing ovation from the away fans.
9. Pedro: 6.5
Played well in patches and had one glorious chance to score a goal at Anfield.
10. Eden Hazard: 9
Man of the match by miles. Scored a stunning goal, was a constant threat and showed immense work rate. The question remains that where was this Hazard at the start of the season!
11. Bertrand Traore: 6
Widened the game well with his runs, but couldn’t deliver the final punch.
Subs:
1. Kennedy: 5.5
His fight with Joe Allen was the highlight of his cameo.
2. Tammy Abraham: 6
The six foot five 18 year old has a huge future ahead of him, but didn’t get showed what he can do in his little cameo.
3. Ruben Loftus-Cheek: N/A