Brighton v Chelsea player ratings
Eden Hazard scored one and made one as Chelsea won at Brighton. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in the 2-1 victory.
Kepa Arrizabalaga: 6
Had nothing to do in the opening 30 minutes but then had to get down sharpish to prevent Solly March’s strike from finding the net. Not busy, despite being beaten in the second half.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
Made a diving block to keep out another March effort, which would have made John Terry proud. Planted a low cross that was crying out for the merest touch. A dependable presence, as ever.
Antonio Rudiger: 7
Almost headed in a Willian corner in the first half and had a largely untroubled afternoon until Albion’s late rally. Remained strong and assured.
David Luiz: 6
Had an early free-kick comfortably saved by Mat Ryan and was always looking to join in the fun at the attacking end of the pitch, as usual. But will be disappointed March got across him to score
Marcos Alonso: 6
Had to cope with some initial enthusiasm from Anthony Knockeart down his flank, and endured some uncomfortable moments. He was guilty of an apparent stray elbow and later picked up a yellow card to stop March breaking through. Did get forward to fire against a post.
N’Golo Kante: 7
Some great surges into enemy territory. Patrolled his midfield zone to great effect, helping to keep the Seagulls on the back foot for long spells.
Jorginho: 6
Not an afternoon when his strengths as a holding midfielder were put to the sternest of tests, such was the poverty of Brighton’s attacking for most of the match.
Mateo Kovacic: 6
Neat and tidy in possession. Got through a good amount of work, without being involved in the key moments in the game.
Pedro: 6
Bagged his sixth goal of the season after 17 minutes, stealing in at the far post to touch in a low Hazard cross. Great link-up play with the Belgian at times, who had licence to roam. Faded after a lively start though.
Eden Hazard: 9
Brighton had no answers. Retained as the false number nine, following the success against Manchester City, and was largely unplayable. Set up Pedro’s opener after having a shot charged down – rounding defenders to make the telling cross – then raced away to make it 2-0 after a Willian intercept.
Willian: 7
In the right place to profit from a wayward pass from Leon Balogun to set Hazard free for goal number two. A routine afternoon’s shift, much of it at walking pace, with Albion becalmed for much of the match.
Ruben Loftus-Cheek: 6
Brought on in place of Pedro moments after March had hooked in a goal to make it 2-1 on 66 minutes. Another good cameo, as he offered a threat on the right side of midfield, twice almost creating goals.
