Full Time: Chelsea 4-2 Watford
Chelsea silenced all the people doubting them, as a late winner from Cesar Azpilicueta helped the Blues romp away to a 4-2 victory against Watford at Stamford Bridge. Much of their good fortune can be attributed to the heroics of Michy Batshuatyi as he saved Antonio Conte’s men from another defeat after an embarrassing loss to Crystal Palace last weekend.
Pedro gifted the Blues a 12th minute lead but Abdoulaye Doucoure leveled things up right before half-time, following which Roberto Pereyra slotted the visitors into the lead. The turning point came when Richarlison missed two simple chances to make it comfortable for the Hornets, but ultimately it was Azpilicueta and Bashuayi who secured three points for Chelsea.
Let’s take a look at how the Blues fared against Watford:
Chelsea Player Ratings
Thibaut Courtois – 6/10
The keeper disappointed the home crowd with his inability to keep out the goal in the first-half. He was beaten at the post, following which Courtois seemed visibly frustrated.
Antonio Rudiger – 7/10
The German made some crucial blocks and tackles here and there to keep Chelsea in the game. He dominated throughout the game, barring some moments of inefficiency.
David Luiz – 6/10
Although Luiz looked strong in the first-half, he seemed a bit shaky after the break. However, he was quite effective at keeping Troy Deeney at bay.
Gary Cahill – 6.5/10
Cahill was excellent in the first half but he was caught off position several times in the second-half, and he also seemed to be lacking focus towards the end of the match.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 8/10
The player provided ample support when charging forward in the first-half, but he does need to work on his crossing. Despite that, Azpilicueta was perhaps the most consistent Chelsea player, and also scored a late goal to seal the victory for the Blues.
Marcos Alonso – 4/10
Surprisingly, Alonso was simply not at his best today. He barely made any impact on the game and was substituted in the second-half after a lacklustre display.
Tiemoue Bakayoko – 4/10
Another disappointment for Chelsea was their summer acquisition from AS Monaco. His pace was completely off, while he also made some very sloppy passes.
Cesc Fabregas – 6/10
Fabregas was more creative than Bakayoko but he was not up to the mark. He is capable of doing a lot better but against Watford, the player appeared to be in a rut.
Pedro – 7.5/10
Pedro made some strong, incisive runs to trouble an otherwise strong Watford defence. He displayed some stunning finishing skills while slotting in his goal, and it was a good day for the player.
Eden Hazard – 6/10
Hazard’s tricks and flicks made for pleasant viewing but they really did not add much value to the game. He did look threatening at times but this is not the Belgian at his best.
Alvaro Morata – 5.5/10
The former Real Madrid man was outshone on every level by Watford’s Christian Kabasele and didn’t even get close to scoring a goal.
Subs:
Michy Batshuayi – 9.5/10
Lovingly touted Chelsea’s super sub after the game, Batshuayi looked fierce as he completely dominated the Watford defenders. In fact, he was responsible for the Blues’ three points.
Willian – 8.5/10
Another sub who came on and made an instant impact was Willian. His pace changed the tempo of the game to benefit Chelsea, and he put in a wonderful cross for the winning goal.
Davide Zappacosta – N/A
Replaced Pedro in the 86th minute.