Watford 1-2 Chelsea: 5 talking points & tactical analysis | Premier League 2018-19

#4 Hazard converts penalty, Chelsea hold on to claim the victory

Never in doubt!

Chelsea's effective pressing in the middle third of the pitch was a highlight and a positive takeaway for Sarri and co. The same led to both their goals as well.

For the second, Jorginho won the ball and instantly chipped it over to Hazard, who was alive to it. The little magician took it forward and tried to beat an onrushing Ben Foster, but the veteran goalkeeper bundled him over, leaving Martin Atkinson with no choice but to point to the spot.

The 27-year-old stepped up and sent Foster the wrong way. His goal proved to be the winner. Post that goal, the Blues cleverly relied on their counter-attacking prowess. They sat back and brought on Emerson who provided cover even when his team were forward for corners.

Moments later, Willian fizzed a shot past the frame of goal. In the dying stages, Jorginho fancied himself from 25 yards as well. Just before the final whistle, Hazard tested the keeper but missed out on a second hat-trick.

Watford meanwhile didn't look like finding a second equaliser.

Eden Hazard has been directly involved in more Premier League goals than any other player this season:🔵 18 games🔵 15 starts🔵 10 goals🔵 9 assistsIt really is Hazard SZN. pic.twitter.com/3CqGgMFmk8

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) December 26, 2018