Post by Butch on Aug 27, 2018 15:57:07 GMT
In January we suffered the most shocking of all recent defeats when Bournemouth deservedly beat us 3-0 at The Bridge-all their goals coming in the second half as they embarrassingly dominated us!
3 wins out of 3 represents the best possible start for us, but Bournemouth have also had a great start, with 2 wins (v West Ham and Cardiff) and a home draw coming from 2-0 down against Everton. So it is 3rd v 6th and I don't think we take 3 points for granted. Our defence which is not looking perfect, will be tested by Callum Wilson and Ryan Fraser.
The weather forecast is dry and sunny, with temperatures about 23 degrees.
I shall be watching the match at Stamford Bridge-a few beers and a curry beckons, so the unofficials are unlikely to be available until Sunday morning.
Anticipated line up:
Kepa
Azpi, Luiz, Rudiger,Alonso
Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic
Hazard, Pedro
Morata
I don't expect to see any changes-this seems to be his preferred midfield 3 so Barkley and RLC are going to have to be very patient. The only possible consideration
s for changes will come up front-Willian may replace Pedro ( I wouldn't) and Giroud could come in for Morata (I would)..however last week's team and subs is likely.
After the strange match against Newcastle, this should more like a normal Prem game, as the oppo will surely be more adventurous the pitiful Geordies. Hopefully Hazard will receive more support as our attacking threat and it will be interesting to see if Luiz can improve upon a couple of ordinary games against Newcastle and Arsenal.
Summary of unofficial stats
(The Community Shield scores have been taken out of the ratings)
Star Man Awards: Hazard 2, Luiz 1
Highest Average: Hazard 8, Alonso 7.33, Kante, Pedro and Jorginho 7,
Lowest Average: RLC 5, Kepa 5.33, Luiz, Azpi, Barkley and Giroud 6
Goal Scorers: Pedro 2, Morata 1, Kante 1, Jorginho 1, Alonso 1, Hazard 1, own goal 1. Total 8
See season unofficial marks after the Newcastle game:-
unofficialmarks.com/thread/13/average-marks-season-after-newcastle