Petr Cech wasn’t that busy, but he kept his good form in another match in which Chelsea didn’t look to interested in winning, not having the fortune of having Drogba to poach a goal. Arsenal had their moments, but in general, it was a very disappointing 0-0 draw in the London derby, with Tottenham and Newcastle enjoying the goalless affair.
Robin van Persie had his chances, but he’s been struggling in recent weeks. Maybe it’s just being low on ammunition or the talk of him breaking Cristiano Ronaldo’s record. Maybe it’s the talk of his future destination, as another summer in which Wenger struggles to hold on to his biggest star looks to be waiting after the season ends.
Roberto Di Matteo made 8 changes from the lineup that started against Barcelona on Wednesday, and the intentions were clear. Just don’t lose, and hopefully keep everyone healthy. Fernando Torres has returned to look like the guy who has no interest in the game or in anything, looking like a pale ghost wandering around the pitch, aimlessly. Sad. The man needs a change, and fast.
Daniel Sturridge and Salomon Kalou got a rare chance in the starting lineup, but they were both busy with defensive assignments. When they did get their touches, their greediness with the ball hindered any chance of causing any serious damage. Laurent Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen looked confident and had no trouble dealing with the few Chelsea attacks.
On the other side, John Terry and Gary Cahill couldn’t get a breather, as there’s no one to play for them. Terry kept his lack of concentration streak intact, missing his man a few times, leading to some big misses from Van Persie and Koscielny. Gary Cahill was the better man on the day, of the two. He quickly left his growing pains with a big club behind him, or at least it seems that way.
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When Theo Walcott plays well, Arsenal thrive. The mercurial winger wasn’t at his best, taken off after 60 minutes picking up yet another injury. Gervinho kept his post ACN form, failing to make any sort of impression on the pitch.
Di Matteo got what he wanted. A 0-0 draw and some rest for more important players heading into Barcelona. His attacking options remain limited, especially with Didier Drogba questionable for that match. Torres might look a bit more anxious to play in Spain, but that’s doubtful. He’ll probably be busy defending most of the time anyway, like the entire Chelsea lineup.