Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis | Premier League 2019-20
Chelsea registered their fifth successive win in all competitions against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge, courtesy a well-drilled effort from Marcos Alonso. The win not only saw them jump into the top four, but also ensured their second clean sheet of the season.
The Blues, who have been in flying form in terms of their activity down the sharp end of the pitch, showed immense character in churning out a crucial win against a side that left them reeling for creativity at times.
For the first time ever in his brief managerial career, Frank Lampard has mustered five victories in a row. Ahead of a busy round of fixtures, it was important for the West Londoners to resume their campaign with a win.
As far as Steve Bruce's side were concerned, they put in the shift a lot of us expected. Sheer tactical defending off the ball, coupled with brave challenges and interceptions appeared to have knocked the Blues off their perch, but Alonso had other ideas as he netted his first goal since April.
On that note, we analyse the major five talking points from Chelsea's important victory against Newcastle United.
#5 Chelsea boss possession but remain out of ideas in the early stages
The game began in scrappy fashion, with players of both sides going to ground often. However, it took no time for Newcastle to set themselves up in shape and allow Chelsea to come at them.
The opening exchanges of the game saw the hosts enjoying a lot of the ball, racking up passes to all corners and shifting the ball from side to side. There was barely anything to show apart from the lion's share of the ball.
A quick interplay had Callum Hudson-Odoi in a dangerous position down the left, and he teed it up for Mason Mount. The latter turned and shot on target, but straight at Martin Dubravka.
Besides, a half chance for Newcastle and a break away was all that unfolded in a tight first 45 minutes.