3 reasons why Chelsea lost 1-0 to West Ham United

West Ham were the unlikely winners at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to London rivals West Ham United at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.

The Blues were favourites to get back to winning ways in the league after losing to Manchester City last time. After Wednesday's draw against Valencia, Frank Lampard's side had their sights on the three points. But an out of sorts West Ham side came up with an upset in the London derby.

The first half was pretty even, but Chelsea had the majority of the chances. Reece James was impressive, and Olivier Giroud and Christian Pulisic failed to connect with his crosses. Tammy Abraham missed the game due to injury, and his absence was felt keenly.

West Ham started the second half strongly and took the lead early on. Aaron Cresswell bent a fine finish past Kepa Arrizabalaga to give his side the lead. Once ahead, West Ham did well to smother any opportunities Chelsea had. The Blues added pressure as the game progressed, but the Hammers held on to claim a vital win.

Chelsea stay fourth in the league, but the win gave West Ham a massive jump. They are now three points clear of the relegation zone. Here are the main reasons why Chelsea lost to the Hammers.

#3 Olivier Giroud rendered insignificant for Chelsea

Tammy Abraham has been the first-choice striker for Chelsea this season, and the youngster has done justice to his role. But he went off injured against Valencia on Wednesday which ruled him out of the West Ham game.

Lampard had the choice between Michy Batshuayi and Olivier Giroud, and he chose the latter. The Frenchman has a particular set of qualities, which include aerial ability and hold-up play. But he failed to impose neither on the game.

James put in a handful of crosses in the first half, but that was it for Giroud. One of them was a great chance, but he failed to judge the flight of the ball. Other than that he had little impact on the game overall. Lampard could look to Batshuayi for the coming games if Abraham fails to recover from his injury.

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