Chelsea made a decent start to the game, showing a bit of impetus and energy to try to put the tie to bed quickly.
But after about 10-12 minutes, that initial endeavor ebbed away, we settled into a long boring slog of little enjoyment. In fact, we would finish the first half without a single shot. That’s not just on-target, but any sort of shot. An xG of zero, point, zero, if you can believe it.
The only way was up after that bit of siesta, with a couple changes made at half-time as well to help us in that venture.
Thankfully, it didn’t take long for that to bear fruit, with the high press forcing a turnover and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall turning into Dewsbury-Hazardall, and scoring with a wonderful individual effort.
With the tie effectively over, Chelsea played with a bit more freedom and create more danger than at any point prior in the game, though without finding a second on the night.
Still, we were able to see out the result fairly comfortably (other than a bit of a scramble at the very end).
Carefree.
- More square pegs in round holes with Acheampong starting at left back, inverting into midfield; KDH and Enzo as the two 10s, the latter then replaced by Palmer at half.
- 0 shots in the first half, 11 in the second
- Now 10 games in a row without a goal or assist for Palmer
- Debut for young Genesis Antwi, 5 minutes off the bench in stoppage time
- Four wins in a row and another clean sheet!
- Chelsea move into the quarterfinals (April 10 & 17), where we will face either Legia Warsaw or Molde. They are heading into extra-time after a 3-3 draw on aggregate.
- Next up: Arsenal away on Sunday, then a two-week international break
- KTBFFH
