Chelsea secured a place in the semi-finals of the Europa League but their opponents certainly went down fighting. Here’s how we rated the Blues players in an eventful second leg.
Petr Cech: 7
Had no chance with any of Rubin’s goals and his superb close-range save in first-half injury time proved vital.
Cesar Azpilicueta: 6
Was blameless for the diabolical penalty call which ensured a nervy final 15 minutes but should have done better when attempting to stop the cross for the second goal. Rubin’s preference for attacking down his side meant he was as involved as any Blues player.
David Luiz: 6
Strangely quiet and was probably even ‘out-haired’ by Nathan Ake. No silly moments and overall a very restrained performance. Played sensibly and did enough.
John Terry: 7
A little subdued and certainly less commanding than we are used to seeing, but made a couple of vital first-half blocks and won some key tackles. Will have been furious to be part of a defence that conceded two goals from simple balls into the box even though neither were directly his fault. Took more responsibility in the closing stages when Chelsea needed him.
Paulo Ferreira: 5
Did little wrong but not totally convincing and a couple of lapses in concentration almost led to goals.
Ramires: 7
His tenacity and dynamism led to the second goal and he was influential all over the pitch before the break. Forced to defend for lengthy spells after the interval so was restricted as an attacking force. Like fellow Brazilian Luiz, seemed to play slightly within himself with Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final in mind.
Nathan Ake: 6
The Dutch teenager showed why he is so highly rated with a decent display on just his second start. Poor marking for the second goal but otherwise did okay with the ball, and his tireless running and energy was much needed.
Frank Lampard: 7
A steadying influence and appeared more comfortable in a slightly more advanced role. Made numerous intelligent runs forward as he desperately sought his 201st Blues goal, but couldn’t quite fashion a shooting chance or get on the end of anything. Was still running box to box in injury time at the end of the game.
Yossi Benayou: 5
Some neat touches and cute passes in the opening 45 minutes and his workrate was good throughout. But largely anonymous after half-time and defensively could have done more to assist the overworked Azpilicueta.
Victor Moses: 8
A cool finish for what turned out to be the crucial goal. Looked lively, powerful and busy. Always prepared to accept possession and run with the ball and was the main outlet and best option to relieve the pressure as the hosts pressed in the second half.
Fernando Torres: 8
Took his early goal brilliantly with an exquisite, instinctive finish and looked so much sharper than the Torres of a month ago. However, the most encouraging aspect of his performance was his movement and the clever runs he made in behind the home defence.
John Mikel Obi: 5
Came on with 30 minutes remaining when the game looked won to give Ramires a rest. But was sloppy and backed up pre-match talk of finding it tough to get motivated for the Europa League. Unable to bring the defensive solidity and measure of control needed. Some sloppy marking almost cost Chelsea dear.
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This post was last modified on 12/04/2013