Chelsea twice squandered a lead as they were held to 2-2 draw by West Brom. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in a feisty encounter at Stamford Bridge.
Thibaut Courtois: 7
The Belgian was beaten by two long-range strikes, but he could do little about either goal. He also made a couple of impressive low saves from headers after well-worked set-pieces.
Branislav Ivanovic: 7
A much-improved performance by the beleagurered Serbian, who set up the first goal, defended with far greater confidence and was much more reliable on the ball then he has been so far this season.
John Terry: 7
Defended sensibly, knowing when to drop off and allow the pace of Kurt Zouma to cover in behind, and when to challenge for the first ball. Steady and accomplished on a testing evening.
Kurt Zouma: 6
Tidy enough, but seemed a bit flustered by the intelligent running and quality of Salomon Rondon.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
Timed his run superbly for his goal and was solid and dependable at the other end.
John Mikel Obi: 7
Brought his usual authority and calming influence to the holding role but is also using the ball quicker – and crucially that buys his midfield colleagues more time to create opportunities.
Cesc Fabregas: 7
Chelsea’s creator-in-chief from last season is looking much closer to his best, largely thanks to Mikel’s selfless play. Finds time on the ball when there doesn’t seem to be any and always seems to be on the verge of setting up a chance.
Oscar: 6
He was typically industrious without ever quite managing to stamp his authority on the game or find space to create or score a goal.
Willian: 9
Another couple of assists to his name for his part in the build-up to Azpilicueta’s strike and fine cross for Kenedy’s goal. Predictably excellent.
Pedro: 5
The Spaniard was tidy and threatening enough for the first 30 minutes, coming off the wing to use his speed and get in behind a West Brom defence lacking in pace. But his good work was undone by a careless touch to tee up the equaliser and, with his confidence shaken, he was replaced at the break.
Diego Costa: 8
The Spain striker continues to push the boundaries with his confrontational nature, but he is now looking fitter and sharper than at any point this season. Created two good chances for himself in the first half, helped make the opening goal, was very unlucky not to score in the second period and also got booked. Always involved and dangerous.
Kenedy: 8
Has the unquestioning confidence of youth with a willingness to take on defenders that excites the crowd every time he gets on the ball. Played a key role in the second goal and showed he deserves to be an important part of the squad.
This post was last modified on 14/01/2016