Chelsea relives the title challenge

 

Chelsea continue to roar with a decisive 2-0 win at home to Manchester City. This was a fundamental "six point" game. City started the game in third place with Chelsea two points behind. The victory now puts Chelsea one point ahead ดาวเด่นเชลซี with one game in hand, potentially just six points behind United. The chase for the title is not over for Chelsea as they look to defend their crown with a late charge.

GAME HIGHLIGHTS

Chelsea's two goals came late in the game: in the 78th minute courtesy of inspiring defender David Luiz, and then in injury time from their other new Brazilian star, Ramires. The game was really heading for a scoreless draw. Chelsea manager Ancelotti opted for an experimental attacking force of Malouda, Torres and Kalou, and Chelsea didn't really improve their game until Drogba and Anelka were introduced in 70 minutes.

David Luiz once again showed the great value he has, even at his high price. He has adapted perfectly to English Premier League football and has provided energy, balance and a cutting edge to the team. He really is one of the star finds of this season. His second goal of the season proved that he is a magnificent two-way threat. Chelsea have to hope that he is a lasting player because he will be a key player for them in the coming seasons. Ramires, on the other hand, has often struggled with league pace, but his last-minute goal indicates that he has found his pace and stamina in a league that he physically punishes.

CITY MAN

Chief Mancini will be disappointed that his team failed to show up in this critical swing game against Chelsea. Now they have lost their third place and in their current form, they will have a hard time getting ahead of Chelsea, AND they will have to battle Tottenham for that fourth place. It looks like another soft end to a season for City, who also seem to be running out of strength and ideas. For all the money they have spent, developing team chemistry has been a great struggle. The team takes some time to solidify, so this part is understandable. Whether the owners are patient enough to wait is another matter. If José Mourinho is available in the summer, I hope that City will make him a substantial offer to lead City. So plenty of potential drama awaits City in the offseason. Stay tuned for this one.

IMPLICATIONS OF THE TITLE

It is very clear that Chelsea now have the momentum to go after United. Arsenal seem to be losing steam. He is not healthy defensively and his goalkeeper Almunia is on an erratic streak. At this rate, Chelsea will review Arsenal for second place and will be the team applying the heat to United. I would love for them to prove me wrong because Arsenal have a good chance of ending their trophy drought and are still in a great position to attack. But now they have big problems with team dynamics and confidence. This is the point in the season where the team should be in high gear for the home stretch. Arsenal is babbling.