Boss Jose Mourinho was critical of Chelsea after their poor display at St James’ Park – and with good reason. Here’s how we rated his players in their defeat against Newcastle.
Petr Cech: 7
Produced good saves to deny Moussa Sissoko, Yoann Gouffran and Loic Remy, keeping Chelsea in the game as his defence struggled in the second half.
Branislav Ivanovic: 6
Got forward regularly and was unlucky not to score in the first half, but allowed Gouffran to squirm away from him and head home the all-important opening goal.
David Luiz: 5
An easy target for traditionalists who prefer a different type of defender, but Luiz was poor in this game. He was too slow into the challenge on several occasions and not tight enough to Newcastle’s forwards.
John Terry: 6
Headed against the woodwork and at the other end saved Chelsea with a couple of vital blocks and interceptions. But Remy gave the Blues skipper serious problems when he was able to isolate him one-versus-one, which happened too often.
Ashley Cole: 5
Had his hands full defensively and was unusually sloppy. Caught out in the second half and Newcastle almost scored as a result.
Ramires: 5
Another trusted performer who was inexplicably poor. Lost the midfield battle and was left for dead by Vurnon Anita in the build-up to Newcastle’s second goal.
Frank Lampard: 5
Also struggled in midfield. Had a disappointing game before being replaced by Andre Schurrle in the second half.
Oscar: 7
Quiet when Chelsea were on top in the first half but actually looked more dangerous when the team as a whole were less effective in the second. Got livelier as the game went on and created a late chance for Willian.
Eden Hazard: 6
Started brightly but didn’t seem to recover properly after picking up a knock. A disappointing afternoon for the talented Belgian.
Juan Mata: 7
Another who found the going tough in the second half. Was impressive in the first though, showing his trademark deft touches and clever movement.
Fernando Torres: 5
Was unable to extend his recent run of good form. The striker was ineffective before being replaced by Samuel Eto’o.
Andre Schurrle: 6
Couldn’t turn the tide back in Chelsea’s favour when brought off the bench as Newcastle were in the ascendancy.
Willian: 6
Worked hard after coming on and definitely had a positive impact. Unlucky not to score before Remy’s goal.
Samuel Eto’o: 6
Lively when he was introduced but was left frustrated by Newcastle’s stubborn defending.
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This post was last modified on 03/11/2013
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Luiz gave to ball away and always looked for Torres with long balls didn't really involved the midfield.
Torres shouldn't be blamed he didn't get that many chances to do something and Jose should've subbed him ,him and Eto'o together got us back against Norich and Cardif.