It was an electric atmosphere at Stamford Bridge as the top two clubs faced each other in the English Premier League. Chelsea hosted Manchester United in what was the most anticipated match so far in the 2009-10 season. Here’s a recap of the match along with video highlights.
Chelsea beats Manchester United 1-0 – Video Highlights
It was a quick pace to the match but neither team had any great chances in the first ten minutes. The crowd as absolutely electric and the atmosphere was equivalent to a Champions League semifinal. Man United had the edge early with most of the possession but both defenses were able to keep their shape.
Man U were close to taking the lead in the 14th minute and almost had a penalty as Valencia dribbled into the box and was taken down by John Terry. It was not a clear call but the Chelsea defender was lucky to not concede a penalty as it more than likely would have been called outside of the box. United were much sharper in their passing and able to hold possession through the midfield while Chelsea struggled to do the same.
It remained scoreless through the first 20 minutes. The match started to open up as the first half progressed. In the 32nd minute, Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka had a shot on goal that was just saved by van der Sar. The momentum started to even out as the chances went back and forth. Neither team made any major mistakes defensively in the first half.
The first half had no scoring but still was exciting with a lot at stake as the winner would go top of the table. Neither goalkeeper was tested much as both teams didn’t have many shots on goal. It was not a very offensive first half especially for Chelsea. The two teams would head into the second half with a 0-0 scoreline. With a defensive minded first half, it was likely to result in a 1-0 or 0-0 result.
The match started to open up in the second half as Chelsea were the more aggressive team early. The home team would take the lead in the 76th minute as Terry would score on a header off a free kick. Trailing 0-1 with only a few minute left, Man U sent players forward in the attack looking for a goal. Chelsea remained ahead as the match went into stoppage time.
Man U were unable to find a goal the entire night as Chelsea would extend their lead atop the league table. It was not the most exciting match but a hard fought win for Chelsea who have to be the favorites to win the league trophy at this point.
| SCORING SUMMARY | |
| Chelsea | Manchester United |
| John Terry (76) | |
| MATCH STATS | ||
| Chelsea | Manchester United | |
| Shots (on Goal) | 12(6) | 18(2) |
| Fouls | 13 | 15 |
| Corner Kicks | 0 | 7 |
| Offsides | 1 | 2 |
| Time of Possession | 47% | 53% |
| Yellow Cards | 3 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 2 | 5 |
Football is a funny old game – my belief was that Manchester United were going to be triumphant when they met Chelsea at Stamford Bridge especially after the away result at Anfield but I have to eat humble pie. If we have to be honest and say which club deserved the win after watching the game then it as got to go in favour of United and more so for not been up to full strength as key players were missing. Also I think, and this does make a change, the ref went with Chelsea a few times on decisions at the expense of United. Surprisingly I thought Brown and Evans in the defensive role did quite well, much better than anticipated. Rooney had his chances but been on your lonesome held him back somewhat and this I believe was United’s downfall in the lack of goals and even attempts, so as for bringing Owen on when the whistle is about to blow is ludicrous and I cannot figure Ferguson’s game plan here?