In Britain football had taken the backseat, as the royal wedding had taken the centre stage with over two billion viewers. The wedding was touted as one of the grandest affairs in recent times with star studded guest list. People were seen exchanging gifts and this trend seemed infectious, as Gomes with the assistance from linesman gifted Chelsea a goal at the stroke of half time.
Gomes is no stranger to shoddy goalkeeping, as this wasn’t the first and certainly won’t be the last. The last time the two teams met, it ended in a draw and both teams could not afford a draw this time around .Chelsea had to win the game to keep their title dreams alive and kicking. On the other hand Tottenham had to keep up with Manchester City in contention for the fourth place. No team could afford to slip up as the ramifications were too expensive. Chelsea started with Torres and Drogba up front in 4-3-2-1 formation. Tottenham started with 4-4-1-1 with a packed midfield. Chelsea’s revival of late was unexpected as they were out of the title race a couple of months ago. Chelsea had won 7 out of their last 8 games in contrast to Tottenham who had been dropping points. Tottenham who are known for raising their game against the big teams did not disappoint, as they took the lead on the 19th minute, courtesy of a brilliant volley from Sandro. Chelsea took the game by the scruff off the neck and attacked. A 30 yard free kick from Drogba rattled the woodwork. In spite of dominating the game they had nothing to show on the score card till the stroke of half time .The Tottenham players were left seething at half time, after the linesman overruled the on field referee’s decision to award Chelsea a goal .The television replays confirmed the fact that the ball hadn’t crossed the line.
Chelsea came into the second half with a more attacking mind set. Torres was persistently trying hard to win the ball. Defoe was brought on to rattle Chelsea’s defense .Torres was substituted by Kalou, who was in rich vein off form .On 87th minute Kalou netted in the goal after the ball had taken a deflection from Drogba’s attempt at goal. The crowd was ecstatic after the final whistle was blown, as Chelsea had bridged the gap between Manchester United .Manchester United cannot afford to slip up when they meet Arsenal on Sunday at Emirates .Chelsea fans will be blessing the assistant referee and Gomes as it was truly, a “Royal gift”.
Watch all the goals from Chelsea 2-1 Tottenham here.
