Chelsea 2 - Arsenal 1

Quite a game.

One of the best I've seen - apart from the last 5-10 minutes of normal time.

I didn't blog my opinion of this game - but I'd already given Chelsea the win.

Arsenal started really well, Walcott scored a classy goal - reminds me of Thierry Henry's kind of finish - there's definitely more coming from this kid.

Drogba's first goal was marginally offside - he got flagged later on from a similar position. However in soccer, one day you get those, the next day you don't so there's no point dwelling too much on such - even if they have the tendency to alter a game.

Arsenal really should have put the game beyond Chelsea in the first half but for outstanding stops by Peter Cech and defending by Carvalho.

Second half, Chelsea saw more of the ball (I don't agree with Mourinho's assessment that they dominated the second half) - it was more of a 50-50 with Chelsea's experience and strength showing towards the end.

I was really worried about John Terry's accidental kick on the head by Diaby. Hope it's not too serious. Diaby apparently got injured in the same incident - though I think he felt it more emotionally than physically.

Arsenal's attacking and threat was reduced with Diaby and Traore's substitution. And with no Clichy or Rosicky on the bench, the right side pair of Hleb and Hoyte didn't provide much attacking threat when played on the left.

Mourinho's introduction of Robben in the interval was a masterclass - as Makelele was ineffective in stopping the maurading youngsters. Robben ensured that they had much to think about by keeping them busy attacking. He also provided the pass that led to Drogba's second. I feel Chelsea need to keep Drogba fit if they are to catch ManU this season.

My assessment.
Chelsea won the cup, barely though. Arsenal's youngsters however have made their point. An outfield team of less than 21 years average age started the game. The entire squad cost less than Schevchenko I believe. History however will show that Chelsea won the Carling Cup. History will also show (I believe soon) the emergence of a young classy Arsenal side.

The other small thing (not so small though) - Toure really shouldn't have lost it at the end. He was the captain. I think Adebayor wasn't the culprit - Eboue was. There'll be quite a number of suspensions coming soon. I wonder what would have happened if John Terry and Lehmann were on the pitch :D

My Men of the Match:

Arsenal:
this is tricky - Walcott - he scored his first goal for arsenal

Chelsea:
Didier Drogba - really should win Player of the year this time round