An important game for both Chelsea and Watford at Stamford Bridge, as both looked ahead to potentially qualify for European competition next season, ended in a dominant second half Chelsea display and three points for the Blues in a 3-0 win.
It was much of the same for the Golden Boys at Stamford Bridge on Sunday as Javi Gracia had his team fired up, looking to gain points and get a step closer to the coveted 7th position in the league table. Maurizio Sarri has been under pressure much of the season as Chelsea looked to further secure a Champions League spot and some nervy performances as of late kept them questioning whether they would return to Europe’s elite competition.
Through 45 minutes of the first half, Watford looked arguably the stronger team. They were patience, controlled on the ball and took some quality chances. The best opportunity coming off the head of Troy Deeney, forcing Kepa Arrizabalaga into a one-handed dive to the top right corner of the Chelsea goal, deflecting the ball wide. The Hornets have come under fire for their record against the top six this season and Javi Gracia responded after the game, “I prefer to be an optimist, to try to understand the team, to understand the players and try to give the confidence they need to do it better next time.”
Out of the break, it would be Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who replaced the injured N’Golo Kante, 10 minutes into the first half, who would get Chelsea on the board. Just three minutes after kick off, Eden Hazard set a cross in that found the head of Loftus-Cheek to give the Blues the lead. It would take another three minutes and Hazard again would be the center of the attack, as his cross to David Luiz would double Chelsea’s lead, giving Hazard his 15th assist on the season. Gonzalo Higuain added a 75th-minute goal to ensure the win for Sarri’s men.
Tale of two Watford’s
We’ve seen similar performances from the Hornets this season against the top six this campaign. The first 45 minutes they follow Gracia’s game plan, play smart, control the ball and take good chances. However, out of the break, the Hornets return to the pitch flat and end up falling behind quickly.
This was evident against Chelsea, a defensive lapse and they end up playing from behind. This was seen earlier in the season against both Manchester City, as well as Arsenal.
“It’s something for next season we have to improve but it’s not fair only to speak about the results. After that, for sure I recognise we have to do something different,” said Gracia. This could be the need for a strong, physical center halfback to command the defense. Ben Foster has put in some good performances this season, only to be beaten because of a lapse in the defense.
Hazard for sale
Is this the end of the season audition for Eden Hazard? With unproven youngster, Christian Pulisic and a potential transfer ban looming over Chelsea, Eden Hazard becomes a vital piece of the Sarri puzzle. They have now guaranteed a top finish four-finish and Champions League football next season though as well as still being in the running for a Europa League title if they can get by Eintracht Frankfurt.
Hazard has yet to enter into negotiations with Real Madrid but hasn’t said he won’t honor the 12 months he has remaining on his current contract. Selling Hazard could benefit the Blues, losing their talisman and giving some of the younger players, like Ruben Loftus Cheek opportunity to showcase his talents. The same could be said for Callum Hudson-Odoi, who unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury against Burnley a few weeks back.
Watford lose ground
Watford are still looking ahead to the May 18th and their FA Cup Final against Manchester City. While not the favorites, they will need to improve upon their recent run of form. The Sky Blues are on the verge of clinching their second Premier League title in two years and the FA Cup is an important game for both squads.
Watford have picked up just three wins in their last 10 games, unable to keep any clean sheets and scoring just 12 goals. Troy Deeney fresh off his red card suspension could be a key player as the Hornets look to challenge for the FA Cup. In the build-up to Wembley, Gracia said, “you never know what’s going to happen in games, training sessions or just walking down the street. For me, it is better to prepare for a final if you keep doing the same things, the same behaviour. It is better to live with normality every day.”
