Juan Mata was simply brilliant again for Chelsea as they continued their fine start to the season by beating Norwich at Stamford Bridge. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in their 4-1 victory.
Petr Cech: 7
Did not have to pull off any major saves but was his usual assured self.
Branislav Ivanovic: 7
Was solid defensively but could have got closer to Bradley Johnson for the original cross that resulted in Grant Holt’s opener. He set up Fernando Torres’ equaliser though and then sprang up in the box in typical fashion to get on the scoresheet.
John Terry: 6
The centre of attention off the field but Chelsea’s attacking players made sure he had little to do on the field for much of this game.
David Luiz: 6
Circumspect for Holt’s opener. Neither he nor Terry picked up the lone striker in the box and Norwich were allowed further chances because of the Blues’ hesitation in the penalty area in the first half.
Ashley Cole: 6
Had a quiet game following the uproar over his offensive tweet directed at the Football Association, for which he faces disciplinary action.
Frank Lampard: 7
Was excellent on his return to the midfield and sealed the performance with a landmark goal. He notched his 129th Chelsea league goal to equal the club’s all-time top league scorer Bobby Tambling.
John Obi Mikel: 8
Solidified his place in the team following another dominant midfield display.
Juan Mata: 9
Playing off the right to allow Oscar to play through the middle. He orchestrated almost every chance on goal; Oscar and Eden Hazard can learn great things from this man.
Oscar: 6
The young Brazilian has made an explosive entrance to English football but was out-muscled by Norwich midfielders Elliot Bennett and Jonny Howson.
Eden Hazard: 7
Was less dangerous off the left than he has been, but was more effective than Oscar.
Fernando Torres: 8
Impressive. Many fans want another striker added to the squad but with Torres in this form and Sturridge to come in, Chelsea look strong.
Ramires: 7
Came on as substitute with just over 20 minutes to go and imposed himself immediately against an already deflated Norwich side. He, Lampard and Mikel have an interesting battle emerging for those midfield roles.
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This post was last modified on 07/10/2012