Three things we learnt in Chelsea’s 2-1 FA Cup win over Plymouth

3. The back four is the way forward

Let’s end with a huge positive: Chelsea looked well-organized and compact in a back four formation. It is true that Plymouth Argyle cannot be compared with a top team in the Premier League. However, the Pilgrims played to their strengths throughout and counterattacked to the best of their ability. To that point, they scored the opening goal of the game against the run of play, so it was a relatively successful formula, all things considered. However, not much threat came after that and that was also according to plan, the Blues were always going to go on the front foot after falling behind. Such was the composure and discipline of Chelsea’s back line that, even with two players left defending, all Plymouth could hope for was a set piece at best by the end.

Antonio Rudiger and Malang Sarr were a solid wall as centerbacks. They were both calm and composed, they covered spaces and marked their opponents to prevent counterattacks for the most part. Not taking risks, playing simple passes and covering the right spaces were the names of the game for the pairing. On the other hand, Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso appeared in the opposition’s half as much as they did on their own. Particularly, Azpilicueta looked more likely to score a hat-trick than any of the forwards.

Let’s keep in mind, this was a relatively simple job for the Blues’ defenders. Considering the opposition, a good performance was never in doubt. Therefore, Chelsea needs to make some minor adjustments moving forward as things won’t be this easy for the rest of the reason.

What are some of the things you learnt in the match? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!