So Chelsea arent quite the destructive force we all thought after their 2nd defeat in a week away to Manchester City. Whilst they didn't play badly, they didnt control the game as much as they have done in their Premier League encounters earlier this season. Ancelotti's team are still missing Frank Lampard, whose late runs into the box would have been invaluable yesterday.
Roberto Mancini set his side up as he has done all season with 3 holding players who controlled the midfield and didnt allow Essien or Ramires the room they have become accustomed to this season. Ramires looks like a good acquisition but is still adapting to his new surroundings and was caught in possession several times. There was a moment in the 2nd half when the Chelsea capatin John Terry could be seen encouraging his players to speed up their passing; they were unusually quiet yesterday and this was most evident in Drogba who had a poor game. This highlighted another issue Chelsea will face this season; their bench is not as good as some of their rivals. With Drogba struggling yesterday the only other option they had up front was Sturridge who is still to convince at the highest level.
It was an important win for City who should gain considerable confidence from this performance. With other results yesterday it could prove to be a crucial result at the end of the season. It remains to be seen whether Mancini will make the team a little bit more expansive as the season continues but he has ensured their solidity at the back.
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