Chelsea’s final away match of 2017 ended with a goalless draw at Everton. Despite an overly dominant display, the Blues were unable to find a way past the home side. A resolute and strong performance from the Everton defence and goalkeeper meant Sam Allardyce’s side earned a credible point at Goodison Park. Here’s who impressed on Saturday:
3. Victor Moses
Often a good option on the right side, Moses got forward well on a number of occasions. His crossing was great as usual, and one of his crosses almost resulted in a Chelsea goal. The Nigerian’s ball in was diverted towards his own goal by Ashley Williams, but the Welshman’s blushes were spared as the ball cannoned off the crossbar. He was perhaps unlucky to be substituted towards the end of the game for Davide Zappacosta, as he seemed to be the better option at right wing-back.
2. Marcos Alonso
Like Moses, Alonso played well at wing-back on Saturday. On the left-hand side, he was gifted a lot of space to roam, and was found often with a long ball forward. He came close to scoring in the first half, only to see his volley cleared off the line by Phil Jagielka. He delivered a number of teasing crosses into the Everton box, but the Blues lacked the height to give the finish it deserved. If Alvaro Morata was on the pitch, it might have ended differently.
1. Eden Hazard
Unsurprisingly, the best Chelsea player by a mile. Often used at the Blues’ main attacking outlet, many of the Chelsea chances came through him. He caused the Everton defence a number of problems, and forced a number of good saves out of Pickford. Perhaps missed his partner Morata to link up with, but the Belgian did well. Playing as the false nine in the front three, Hazard isn’t going to win many aerial battles, and the Blues should’ve changed their crossing habits to suit him better.