Chelsea looked set to return to winning ways at home – but Southampton had other ideas, storming back from two down to draw 2-2. Here’s how we rated the Blues players on another disappointing night for them at Stamford Bridge.
Petr Cech: 6
A spectator for much of the game and could do little about Southampton’s goals.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 5
Defensively less solid than usual. His cross led to the opening goal but other deliveries were poor.
David Luiz: 6
Was having a comfortable night until the introduction of Rickie Lambert, who caused problems.
Gary Cahill: 6
Calm and composed, especially in the first half. Might have expected better cover from the likes of Azpilicueta and Ramires when Chelsea’s defence were under pressure in the second half.
Ashley Cole: 6
Uncharacteristically ineffective without doing anything particularly wrong. Solid but never really seemed to get going.
Ramires: 6
Started poorly but improved as the game went on and was unlucky not to score with a cracking shot that hit the post, with Eden Hazard firing in the rebound.
Frank Lampard: 6
Another who started sloppily and improved. Missed a good chance to score and although he played a part in the opening goal it wasn’t one of his better displays.
Oscar: 5
A frustrating night for the talented Brazilian. Not much went his way.
Juan Mata: 7
Was also left frustrated at times but still managed to produce moments of class. His clever movement worried Southampton, especially in the first half.
Eden Hazard: 7
Was Chelsea’s most dangerous attacking player and scored a fine goal. But he was also given the runaround by Saints full-back Nathaniel Clyne during an important second-half spell in which the Blues lost the initiative.
Demba Ba: 7
Took his goal really well and has formed a real understanding with Hazard. Some of their link-up play was excellent. Ba’s ability to bring others into the game gives Chelsea an extra dimension.
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This post was last modified on 29/07/2013