Are Chelsea fans happy with the result against Liverpool? Well, it seems that the mood is mixed. On one hand, there is a recognition that the Blues got a result away at Anfield. Based on their recent form, that was not expected. In fact, it ended a six-game losing streak in the Premier League. But on the other hand, it also feels like a win was on the table if the Blues had been a little more clinical or lucky.
Then again, Chelsea did take a step in the right direction. And the biggest sign of that might be in the stats coming out of the game.
A lot has been made about the fact that Chelsea have been outrun in every game they have taken part in the Premier League this season. Well, that changed this Saturday.
According to stats from BBC Sport, the Blues actually outran their opponents on the day. Chelsea covered 104 kms compared to Liverpool’s 103.35 kms.
Chelsea finally outrun opponents in 36th Premier League game of the season
Of course, just outrunning another team is not the key to a team succeeding. That being said, it does show a team’s desire, especially one in Chelsea’s form. The fact that they outran Liverpool this weekend should be taken as a positive sign of progress on their part.
It also comes right before their game against Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Fans will be expecting more of the same, if not better, against Pep Guardiola’s side.
Obviously, on paper, Chelsea will be heavy underdogs going into this match. But at the same time, in the past, we have seen the Blues raise their levels when it comes to big games. Also, Manchester City have not been the most consistent team this season either. And with the Premier League title race still alive, they will have a lot more to be worried about. Perhaps that could end up handing Calum McFarlane’s team a slight advantage.
There were plenty of positives coming out of the game against Liverpool
One can feel that a draw against Liverpool, a poor one at that, is not a great result by any means. But considering Chelsea’s own struggles, it has to be taken as a positive.
There was a lot to be happy about. Chelsea have now scored three games in a row and might have well and truly put that goalless run behind them. Of course, they are not scoring freely at the moment. Hopefully, that will come with a bit more confidence.
The individual performances should be applauded as well. The likes of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella and Cole Palmer all did well, having faced a decent bit of criticism lately. But the standout might have been Levi Colwill, who might not have missed a step despite making his first start since his ACL injury in pre-season.
