Any loss is very depressing. Whether it is in a friendly or inconsequential match or whatever. Losing to Liverpool is even more frustrating, because we all know that Chelsea is miles ahead of them.
It was nice to see us starting with 4-3-3 despite the temptation to use 4-4-2 to accomodate the new arrivals. The first 15 minutes or so, Chelsea was not in the match at all, players strolling, lacking sharpness and enthusiasm. Later on, Chelsea upped the tempo and changed gears which was made the Liverpool defence look shaky. Chelsea started to show more urgency in the game. Finally, over 90 minutes, Liverpool got the job done.
The biggest positive from the match was Shevchenko’s performance. The doubts about how well can he adjust to the tempo and game of EPL has been answered by him handsomely. In a matter of seconds he just proved why he is the best striker in Europe. Credit to Lampard as well in finding Shevchenko in the right place. But Sheva’s first touch was top class and the finish was as cool as you’d ever see. Sheva said later “Lampard is a great player. He understood my movements straightaway. We might have a good partnership this season.†This is a good sign as well.
The performance of the other new players were good too. Kalou was very impressive. He has shown a lot of promise. He has the skill and pace as much as or better than Duff. Obi Mikel was okay but didnt get enough time to prove anything.
When it gets to the premiership, I dont think we would have any problem in retaining the title though the finish might be closer (we’ll surely be clear by atleast 6 points when we win it). Just look at the below team and for a moment think how would they perform as a team with full match fitness: Cech, Gallas (he stays), Terry, Carvalho, Ashley Cole (he comes), Makalele, Ballack, Lampard, Joe Cole, Kalou, Robben & Shevchenko. I prefer to leave out Drogba, his first touch really lets him down and us too.
Next sunday, we’ll see how Chelsea FC & Mourinho respond and what message they send to the football world.
