Chelsea FC v Southampton: Post-Match Reflections
Praising The Saints
Ronald Koeman’s facial expression during and after the game, coupled with the celebrations of the Southampton players (especially tormentor-in-chief, Sadio Mane), indicated surprise at how easy Mourinho’s Chelsea were batted away at a ground once considered an EPL fortress. But anyone putting the victory down to luck would in essence be playing down the effort put in by the players for the duration of the game. And my, what an effort!
Despite going 1-0 down as early as the 10th minute to a normally morale sapping goal (Willian’s goal was clearly a contender for goal of the season) and witnessing at least 1 valid penalty not given (Branislav Ivanovic’s tug on Virgil Van Dijk from a corner-kick), the lads didn’t let their heads drop. They kept on pressing the Blues as high up the pitch as possible, forcing them to resort to playing long balls from defence to a striker (Falcao) who is struggling for form.
Apart from the first goal (which resulted from a smart free-kick routine and slack marking by the constantly underwhelming Cesc Fabregas), Southampton’s goals were consequences of errors by Gary Cahill and Eden Hazard, who both misplaced passes under pressure by the pressing Southampton players.
It was reminiscent of Chelsea’s early 2014/2015 season form when Mourinho and his wards resorted to pressing opposing players high up the pitch to force defensive errors. Mourinho must be scratching his head wondering where that team disappeared to. Few epitomized the industry and dedication of the team more than Mane, who bagged the goal to put them ahead as his just reward. He was full of running and provided the perfect foil for the strength and guile of the in-form Graziano Pelle (who set up the first and scored the last of the Saints 3 goals).
It was a perfect team performance away from home, despite the fact that it came against a side struggling for form and confidence. However, when coupled with the recent upsurge in form, it clearly indicates that the Saints are marching on!
Next: ...And Criticizing The Blues