Chelsea (1) 2 v 2 (0) Tottenham Hotspur
20 Koulibaly, assist Cucerella 68 Hojbjerg, assist Davies
77 James, assist Sterling 90+6 Kane, assist Perisic
Yellows: Mendy, James, Havertz, Red: Tuchel Red: Conte Referee: A Taylor
Played Sunday 14 August 2022 at Stamford Bridge, attendance 39,946.
This latest battle at Stamford Bridge lived up to all expectations and more. Chelsea dominated the first half in which Kalidou Koulibaly’s first Blues goal made him an instant hero if not legend. There however, were ominous signs of what was to come when Referee Anthony Taylor booked the home ‘keeper Edouard Mendy for time wasting at the first offence, and then both Head Coaches for their touch-line antics at the end of the half.
The pattern of play continued in the second half until Tottenham Hotspur’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg stroked in an equalizer from the edge of the box. The first “irregular” goal according to Thomas Tuchel. He then could have received a second Yellow card for his extravagant celebration which took him well out of his technical area after Reece James restored the Blues lead on 77 minutes. The game was not dead and 19 minutes later Harry Kane rose highest to head home Spurs second equalizer, and a second “irregular” goal.
So what were the “irregularities”? Apparently the way Rodrigo Bentancur won the ball back in his own half to set up the move for the Lilywhites‘ first goal. Apparently the way Christian Romero appeared to pull Marc Cucerella to the ground by his Samson-like hair. Both incidents were reviewed by the highly experienced VAR official Mike Dean and both “irregular” goals allowed to stand. After another round of fisty-cuffs both Thomas Tuchel and the visiting/returning Head Coach Antonio Conte received Red cards at the end.
Our next Premier London Derbies (PLDs) match sees Fulham entertain close neighbours Brentford on Saturday 20 August at Craven Cottage. These two keen rivals have never met in the Premier League (PL) before. Another draw looks likely. Let’s hope it is entertaining and passionate but without “irregular” goals and all that goes with them!
Until next time, enjoy your football, Andrew at PLDs.