Dave028

pretty poor there from Giroud, has to do better

LAY IT OFF TO KANTE

nice job Alonso... really nice job

Better from Morata, nice turn, decent strike on his weaker foot

was hoping and thought Morata would be coming into this game with a little more confidence after scoring in back to back games before the break. But lord have mercy he is pitiful. He's just moping around on the pitch. Going down every time he gets the ball with a defender on his back, no energy, not finding/running into spaces. Giroud needs to come on soon because at least he'll put in the work. Thought overall the first half was pretty dull and we need to step it up in the second half. Idk if its the early start time or coming off the international "real" but there was a real lack of energy from the players and the fans

I posted this in the game thread but this thread is probably more appropriate so sorry for repeating myself but the sad thing about the whole Morata situation is not only does he not trust himself, but the players don't either, I was only able to see the highlights, but from what I saw, there were two instances where a Chelsea player could have laid it off to Morata, but instead took the shot themselves. Willian in the 11 min could have easily played it through to Morata who could have at least a decent shot on target, but instead cut it onto his left foot and shanked the shot, and then in the 34 min when RLC made a great move on the defender and had Morata in the box for what could have been an easy tap in but instead took another touch and allowed the CB to knock it away for a corner. If the players can't trust him either, then theres no chance for Morata to get back to the form he was when he first started last year. I think his issue is 100% mental and confidence, nothing physical. Hopefully the goal he scored today will give him the confidence he needs going forward, but I also thought that with the first goal he scored this year and it took him this long to get his second. Im rooting for him big time but if its just not meant to be its just not meant to be.

The sad thing about the whole Morata situation is not only does he not trust himself, but the players don't either, I was only able to see the highlights, but from what I saw, there were two instances where a Chelsea player could have laid it off to Morata, but instead took the shot themselves, Willian in the 11 min could have easily played it through to Morata who could have at least a decent shot on target, but instead cut it onto his left foot and shanked the shot, and then in the 34 min when RLC made a great move on the defender and had Morata in the box for what could have been an easy tap in but instead took another touch and allowed the CB to knock it away for a corner. If the players can't trust him either, then theres no chance for Morata to get back to the form he was when he first started last year. I think his issue is 100% mental and confidence, nothing physical. Hopefully the goal he scored today will give him the confidence he needs going forward, but I also thought that with the first goal he scored this year and it took him this long to get his second. Im rooting for him big time but if its just not meant to be its just not meant to be.

Hard to beat a team when they put 10 players in the box and don't come out and play. I know they had their chances but they were not trying to do anything more than defend. Also it was pretty evident in the end there that the players don't trust Morata. There were a few chances when Wilian and Hazard could have played it across Morata but instead tried to fire it on goal at a tight angle. Striker situation needs to be sorted out. This is a game we should have won but if you would have asked me before the season, with everything that went on in the summer, that we'd have 16 points after 6 games, I would take that all day

Can definitely see a lot of goals being scored in this one. I agree I am not convinced with our backline, its been solid so far minus the Arsenal game, but David Luiz is due to be caught out of position or an error. However our front line should have a field day with their defense. Sarri ball should cut them open, just have to worry, as you mentioned, about them launching long balls over our high line. Again interested to see if Giroud or Morata will get the start after how well Giroud played against Cardiff and Moratas performance last night against PAOK. I think Morata did well to get himself into positions to score and didn't miss any glaring chances, just could have done a lot better and felt he was unlucky at times. I would say this would be a good game for Morata to start and possibly get a goal or two to get his confidence back but I think you go with Giroud after how he played against Cardiff.

Not too upset with the squad selection, still able to rest some key players while putting out a somewhat strong selection. Sounding like a broken record but I would have liked to see CHO over Pedro, at least have him on the bench. Perfect opportunity for him to get some PT, but assuming he might get more chances in the Caraboa Cup. Interesting to see how Morata fairs, in this somewhat "weaker" squad. I hope gets the provided the service he needs and bags a goal or two to get his confidence back, really pulling for the guy because the skill is there. We know what he can do after the start he had to the season. Just needs a little pick me up. Glad Hazard is getting a rest despite being in fire form.

WHO DAT!?

Hey guys. Born in New Orleans but currently living in D.C. I became a fan of not only Chelsea but of soccer back in 2008 when I watched the Champions League Final in Moscow. I know it was a dreadful day in the history of Chelsea, but it was the day that I fell in love with the sport as well as Chelsea. Despite not having a dog in the fight or any real knowledge of the sport or competition for that matter, I knew Manchester United always won, kind of like the Yankees or the Lakers at that time and I hated the Yankees and Lakers, so I pulled for Chelsea. Although Chelsea lost, I immediately fell in love with the game and Chelsea. Seeing the emotions, the drama, and the passion for the game I was hooked. From that point on I have been a soccer and Chelsea fan and have followed them ever since. Looking forward to having discussions as well as learning more about Chelsea from the long time supporters on here!