Chelsea’s defense proved the PFA right in naming Matic, Terry and Ivanovic as part of the Premier League team of the year. With JT being named man of the match and with Ivanovic in brilliant shape after being offered a new three year deal, the Blues knew exactly what they had to do. They carried on towards a likely Premier League title and their first under Mourinho in his 2nd tenure by earning a point at the Emirates thanks to a rock-solid, super-organized group effort. Matic also played a key role by performing impeccably next to Fabregas down the middle of the pitch. Even though The Gunners dominated the game at first, they could not get past The Special One’s carefully crafted Premier League side.
Chelsea could have well won the game if not for a few strange calls by the referee. Even so, Michael Oliver seems like a good luck charm for the Blues who have currently gone through their 8th match without losing when officiated by the 30 year old ref.
The 0-0 tie pushed Chelsea’s lead at the top of the league up to 10 points and they still have a game in hand. Fortunately the result everything but confirms that the title is Chelsea’s and essentially ends any kind of a title race barring an unbelievable run of results. Arsenal are now level with Manchester City on points, but frustratingly for them sit in third place on goal difference. Incredibly and most sickenly from a Gooner point of view, Mourinho is still unbeaten vs Arsene Wenger having lead his side to 7 wins and 6 draws against Arsenal – long may our dominance over the Arsenal continue thanks to the oh so ‘Special One’.
Player ratings: Courtois [8], Ivanovic [8], Cahill [8], Terry [8.5], Azpilicueta [8], Matic [8.5], Fabregas [7], Ramires [7], Oscar [7], Willian [7], Hazard [7.5]