Our beloved Chelsea FC has had a difficult week as a result of the harsh sanctions imposed on Russian billionaire and owner Roman Abramovich. It didn't appear to affect the lads too much, as we still triumphed against Newcastle despite the criticism we'd received, particularly from Arsenal and Tottenham supporters.
Can't even pretend it was an easy game against the Magpies, who appeared to be having the time of their lives, going 7 games unbeaten, and were keen on extending the run to 8 games if it hadn't been for a dastardly blow from Kai Harvertz in the 89th minute to keep us firmly in the race for the Premier League title and break their strong run.
It was a spectacular display by the guys in blue, particularly Kai Havertz, who has scored six goals in his past seven appearances.
Today was no exception for the classy German, who was clinical in front of goal as well as throughout the game.
Kai Havertz Game By Numbers
100% shot Accuracy
43 touches
7 touches in the opponent's box (most)
4 duels won
3 fouls won
1 chance created
1 goal scored
The victory proved to be the medicine we needed in these tough times, and it extends our unbeaten streak at the Bridge to six games in all competitions, with only two goals conceded and four clean sheets kept.
The goal was stunningly gorgeous and easily qualifies for the goal of the month. Kai took down an incisive long ball from Jorginho with an excellent first touch before firmly smashing it beyond Newcastle's intimidating wall of a goalie Dubravka. The goal enthralled the crowd and, more crucially, established a comfortable lead over fourth-place Arsenal, who, despite having two games in hand, but also puts us in a good position with the top 2.
The manager was full of praise for the team's tenacity against a stubborn Newcastle, and he singled out Kai for special mention.
"The pass(from Jorginho was excellent and the control and finish outstanding, so full credit to Kai. He works hard in every game and that is shown in his running, the distance he covers and the high-intensity work he puts in."
"So, to still have the ability, confidence and composure to take the ball in that moment and in the way he did was very good and a moment of pure class."
"We needed that quality to break Newcastle down and Kai delivered for us today"
~Thomas Tuchel
What next for the Blues
Next, in the Uefa Champions League, we head to Stade Pierre-Mauroy for the second match against Lille. We travel with a two-goal advantage and an objective of finishing the job in mind.
The guys aren't acting as though the media stories are bothering them, and the manager has been a source of inspiration with tactically sound decision making week in and week out.
Many jokes have been made regarding how we would get to the Lille game as a result of the current development, and the boss delivered the greatest response in his recent interview.
"We can go by plane. if not we go by Train. If not we go by bus. If not, I drive a seven-seater"
~Thomas Tuchel
We are Chelsea and winning is our way!!!
See you soon, but until then keep your blue flag flying.
Blue is the colour, football is the game
We're all together, and winning is our aim
So cheer us on through the sun and rain
'Cause Chelsea, Chelsea is our name
