By Since66
October 4 2009
As we head off into the International abyss (more World Cup qualifiers and Fab's quest for a perfect ten), Chelsea regained top spot in the Premiership with a deserved, if not convincing win over rivals Liverpool (PAH PAH). In the battle of the strikers although neither scored, Drogba earned top marks over Transvestite Torres, creating both Chelsea goals in the second-half.
However top marks and Man of the Match goes to Hilario in for the suspended Cech.
Every time this bloke is called to the fore he never lets us down - Barcelona (twice), Sheff Utd and Fenerbache - immediately spring to mind.
Today at the Bridge he was dominant in and around his area. Catching every cross, punching clear when needed, immaculate organisation of the back four and pulling off a couple of superb saves in the process.
His first save at the tail end of the first half came after Essien fouled Lucas. Essien was booked for his troubles and how the transvestite wasn't booked for a late lunge on JT nobody knows.
Riera hit the free-kick from about 30 yards out just off the ground. The ball sailed through and Hilario seeing the ball late dived to his right to tip the ball round the post.
His second save came deep into injury time from a Gerrard volley with Chelsea 2-0 up, diving again to his right to earn a standing ovation from the Stamford Bridge faithful.
The miss of the match award belonged to Benayoun who screwed his shot wide with only Hilario to beat. That effort was probably the first to 'beat' Hilario all afternoon.
What I like about Hilario is his professionalism. When Jose brought him to Chelsea over three years ago, Hilario was told that he would always be third choice goalkeeper.
Despite this, Hilario moved his family to England immediately and settled his children into local schools. His loyalty was rewarded during the Summer when he signed for a further two years and he has reaped the plaudits AGAIN with an excellent performance this afternoon.
Chelsea: Hilario, Ivanovic, Carvalho, Terry (c), A Cole, Essien, Ballack, Lampard, Deco (Malouda 75), Anelka, Drogba
Goals: Anelka 59, Malouda 90
Booked: Essien
Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Carragher, Insua (Aurelio 83), Mascherano, Lucas (Babel 75), Kuyt, Gerrard, Riera (Benayoun 66), Torres
Booked: Gerrard 76
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