Liverpool defeats Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

After the sale of Fernando Torres to Chelsea, all eyes were on Torres wearing the Chelsea blue. Hence the most awaited game between Chelsea and Liverpool drew attention far and wide. The acquisition of Suarez and Caroll during the January transfer window had also spiced up Liverpool fans.

Liverpool, on the back of 3 consecutive wins were looking for a double as they had defeated Chelsea earlier in the season at Anfield.

A team comprising an attacking line of Drogba, Torres and Anelka would instill fear in any opponents. The Liverpool defence was up for it. They were as strong as ever as Kenny Dalglish opted to go for three centre backs and two full backs to provide defensive strength. Carragher’s return to the team had bolstered the Reds too.

There were debates as to how would Torres react if he scored a goal on debut. He did not receive many a chances to open his account. The Liverpool fans must have loved his blank sheet.

Liverpool on the other hand did not start with Saurez which surprised many football pundits despite his debut goal against Stoke City.

Great things were expected of the game. The fixture was mouth watering. Both teams were hungry for a win. Chelsea was favourite to win the game. Their strong team on paper lacked the ammunition to defeat the Kop at Stamford Bridge who lost the game 1-0. Liverpool were a determined lot who defended superbly.

It was the Reds’ first victory at Stamford Bridge since October 2008.

The 1^st half saw the goalkeepers at ease where they did not have to make any major saves. Although, the best chance fell to the Argentine Maxi Rodriguez in Liverpool colours, who only managed to hit the cross bar form point blank range. It could have proved costly. Chelsea only had few chances to write home about. Still, the game had its own moments to cherish.

After the break, both teams were eager to score. With tackles flying in, it meant business. The likes of Gerrard, Lucas were putting their best forward to pump up their team mates. There were chances for both teams to score. Liverpool took lead with a sublime strike from Raul Meireles, who has looked in ominous touch under Daglish.

The goal forced Chelsea to change gears and up the ante. They tried their best to score but the resistant Liverpool players were putting their all to make sure Chelsea don’t score. Nicolas Anelka created some lovely openings whihch were thwarted by a resolute Liverpool defence. Chelsea were unlucky on several counts too, especially when the referee overturned an obvious spot kick when the ball had struck Lucas hands.

After the final whistle,the frown in the faces of Chelsea faces said it all. They have not been habituated of losing sights at Stamford Bridge.

Gerrard thumping hands in the air, Carragher’s smile, Reina applauding his fans who had travelled from Merseyside showed what this victory meant for them. Their fourth victory in a row has brought the much needed confidence back to the Reds. The mood in the Reds dressing room must be upbeat after their performance against Chelsea.

Is this the beginning for the new Liverpool era under Henry and Daglish? Good times lie ahead for Liverpool. Kudos to Kenny Dalglish for his intelligent tactics!