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Atkinson Errors Give Chelsea Win Over United
14th November 2009
Premier League leaders Chelsea kept up their 100% home record at the weekend after a 1-0 win over Manchester United.
After a scrappy game, which saw tempers fly at times and 6 bookings, Chelsea took the lead, somewhat undeservedly, in the 75th minute after a combination of John Terry’s head and Nicholas Anelkas’ back managed to glance the ball into the back of the net. This was after a generous free kick was awarded by referee Martin Atkinson, to the dismay of the Man Utd players, particularly the alleged guilty man Darren Fletcher.
The first half began rather tentatively with both sides sharing the possession and neither side produced any clear-cut chances. However, a talking point soon arose in the 14th minute, when Antonio Valencia appeared to have his shirt pulled and subsequently pulled to the floor by John Terry. Referee Atkinson however shook his head and ushered play to continue which clearly angered the United players and manager.
The only Chelsea creative bright spark in the first half, and also throughout, was man of the match Nicholas Anelka who saw his curling left footed shot clawed away by the United keeper Edwin Van der Sar. Man Utd remained on top in the first half due to the pressure put on the Chelsea midfield by Fletcher and Anderson in particular, which subsequently cut off the link between the Chelsea midfield and Anelka and Drogba.
The second half too, took some time to develop until Rooney began to find his feet and he had 2 decent efforts in quick succession, one curling wide and one palmed away by Chelsea goalkeeper Cech. However, despite Man Utd’s dominance Chelsea took the lead in the 75th minute thanks to the awarding of a dubious free kick resulting in the scrappy headed goal.
Despite 5 added minutes United couldn’t find a goal and Chelsea are now 5 points clear of both United and Arsenal although Arsenal still have a game in hand. Both Chelsea and Man Utd are now able to regroup due to the international break.