[Player Ratings] Chelsea 2-0 Hull City: Oscar & Lampard Give Mou A Special Return

Jose Mourinho enjoyed a winning start on his return to the Premier League as Chelsea tamed Hull City Tigers 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

Oscar and Frank Lampard scored in a blistering first half that ensured Chelsea got off to a brilliant start in a championship they will be desperate to win. Proceedings could have gotten off to a smoother start when the home side were awarded a penalty in the opening minutes. Lampard failed to beat ‘keeper Allan McGregor from 12 yards but he would not have to wait long to open his account for the season.

Debutant Kevin de Bruyne slid Oscar through on goal on 13 minutes and the Brazilian poked the ball under McGregor to open the scoring. Lampard tested Mcgregor from long range, only for the Scot to beat his shot away. But there was nothing the Hull ‘keeper could do on 25 minutes as Lampard let fly from a 30 yard free-kick which doubled Chelsea’s lead.

Branislav Ivanovic looked to have further increased his side’s lead when he headed towards goal, only for the newly in-place Hawk-Eye goal-line technology to judge that the ball had not crossed the line before it was clawed away by McGregor. Chances were hard to come by in the second half and despite a notable improvement from Hull, Chelsea saw the game out in relative comfort.

Player Ratings

Cech-6- Chelsea’s mainstay ‘keeper in the Abromavich era is still irreplaceable. Did not have much to do against the newly promoted side but saved well in the second half when called upon.

Cole- 7- excellent performance in a position he has made his own. Defended well and supported the attack when he could.

Terry- 8- found himself as part of a Benitez cull last season but the captain was restored by Mourinho (Terry being one of the first names on the Special One’s team sheet during his first spell). Enjoyed a fairly composed afternoon with little trouble.

Cahill- 7- formed a solid partnership with Terry, picking up where he left off after some impressive displays under Benitez. Needs to stay in top form if he wants to keep David Luiz out of the team.

Ivanovic – 7- whilst also a contender for a CB spot, the Serbian is equally as reliable at right-back. Was also comfortable bringing the ball forward , offering an alternative in attack.

Lampard- 8- was heavily involved in Chelsea’s play, especially in the first half. Comfortable turning defensive possession into attack and was always keen to join in. Atoned for early penalty miss with some searing shots and the stunning second goal from a free-kick.

Ramires- 7- had less of an influence than his fellow midfielders, but as usual was full of running and showed endeavour in defence and attack.

Oscar- 8- just pipped Lampard to the Man of the Match award for his involvement in all that was positive about Chelsea’s play. Kept possession, showed superb vision, beautifully skilful on the ball and a clinical finish for the opener.

De Bruyne- 6- showed glimpses of his talent which prompted Chelsea to bring in the Belgian last year. Looks to have come back from loan ready to challenge for a first team place, sliding Oscar through smartly for the opening goal.

Hazard- 5- failed to impose himself against a very timid first half Hull showing. Also faltered in the second period.

Torres- 5- Mourinho surprised Blues fans with the Spaniard’s inclusion from the start, and Torres never really got going in this game. Only contribution saw him draw the foul for the free-kick from which Lampard scored.

Subs

Lukaku- 7- very impressive when he was introduced for the ineffective Torres. Only had 15 minutes but gave the Chelsea faithful a glimpse of his talent, setting up fellow sub Schurrle who chipped over.

Van Ginkel- 5- his late substitution didn’t allow the new signing from Vitesse much time to contribute.

Schurrle- 6- another new arrival who did his chances no harm at all. The German came on with just over 20 minutes and looked comfortable in possession, almost adding a dream goal to his appearance at the end.

Mourinho will be delighted with the 3 points despite his side missing several first half chances to put the game to bed. Chelsea impressed in the first half, creating much and showing their willingness to attack. They relaxed into a lower gear in the second half, and had Hull possessed a bit more venom in attack they may have pulled one back to make for a tense finish. But there was much for all Blues concerned to celebrate- another opening day win which will fill the team with confidence ahead of an already crucial encounter with Manchester United on the horizon.

How glad are you to have Mourinho back?…What was the best part of Sunday’s performance?…Which of the new signings/recalled loans are you looking forward to seeing more of?…Who was your MOM?…please leave you comments below