Harrison, New Jersey
The New York Red Bulls beat Premier League champions Chelsea 4-2 in front of a packed house, with 24,076 in attendance. As pre-season friendlies usually go, this match was a tale of two halves; Chelsea controlled the tempo in the first, though they failed to capitalize on numerous occasions, whereas the second half provided more open entertainment.
With Hazard, Diego Costa and John Terry on the bench, Chelsea commanded the field in the first half, with most of the forward-flowing football going through Cesc Fabregas. The Blues midfielder had 43 touches in the first half, and had several very good long passes that needed better finishing by the Chelsea forwards. Still, Chelsea managed to score the game’s opener. Oscar fed the ball to Remy in the 26th minute, and the striker maneuvered through Red Bulls defenders to fire a shot past Reynish. Thibaut Courtois showed his class in goal for the Blues, and commanded all defensive efforts with the aid of a very strong, decisive Gary Cahill.
In the second half, Mourinho made some key changes to the Blues’ side, and most ended up backfiring. Asmir Begovic replaced Courtois in goal and never looked confident between the posts. He began the half with nervous clearances and was hesitant on several plays, including the goals. John Terry looked tired, and nowhere near the form of the younger Cahill, whom he replaced at halftime. Diego Costa missed several good chances, though he seemed to be working hard. The one positive in the second half was Eden Hazard, who scored a goal and looked dangerous with every attack.
Franklin Castellanos leveled the match in the 51st minute, capitalizing on a John Terry back pass which should have been handled better by Begovic.
Tyler Adams, a 16-year old, gave the Red Bulls the lead in the 69th minute, while Sean Davis added a third four minutes later.
Chelsea netted a second goal, through a good low-shot by Hazard in the 75th minute, but Sean Davis grabbed his second goal of the match, and fourth for NYRB in the 77th minute.
In the post-match interview, Upper 90 Studios asked Jose Mourinho whether or not he felt the quality of MLS football is improving. The Chelsea manager decided to focus his answer instead on why his team played below par tonight, though he emphasized that his team has no fragilities. Mourinho highlighted that Chelsea players are on their 11th training session in 6 days, in addition to the two International Champions Cup matches. The Blues manager seemed confident in the team this early in the preseason, and even managed to praise the New York Red Bulls youngsters, stating that he was very happy that they worked hard, and fought for every 50-50 ball.
Final Score: New York Red Bulls vs. Chelsea 4-2
Attendance: 24,076 (Red Bull Arena capacity 25,000)
Upper 90 Studios Fantasy Premier League TIPS
Top FPL tips and take-aways from the match:
Attack – Eden Hazard, Star Player
The Blues’ number 10 was a handful after being introduced in the second half. With 34 touches, 2 shots and 1 goal, Hazard was the busiest Chelsea player on the field tonight. If he can stay healthy this season, Hazard will once again deliver top-class points in FPL.
Midfield – Cesc Fabregas, Points Potential
The midfielder had 43 touches on the ball in the first half, before being replaced at halftime. All of Chelsea’s attacks either began with the number 4 jersey, or flowed through him. Expect to earn a high number of assists, and possibly double-digit goals from the Chelsea playmaker, especially if he is supported by Hazard, Diego Costa and Falcao.
Defense – Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic, The Blue Wall
Gary Cahill looks in-form and impressive in his approach to the game, and will surely deliver clean sheets for the Blues this season. Branislav Ivanovic continues to be a machine on the right side, impassible on his heels, and menacing going forward. He will help our FPL managers with clean sheets, assists and goal points this season.
Goal – Thibaut Courtois, The Commander
Already considered one of the world’s best goalkeepers, Courtois looked unstoppable in goal. Not only did he stop several very good shots, but he commands his defense. Expect double-digits clean sheets from Courtois this season.
Photo gallery.
Best moment from the match. Click HERE!
