Ref Mark Clattenburg had no doubts and pointed to the spot. Rovers manager Mark Hughes said 'that Blackburn were mugged and that JT went down to easy.'

Hughes' anger continued as Rovers were denied a penalty of their own as 'Rickity' Carvalho pulled on Jason Roberts's shirt, but the ref can only give what he can see.

Chelsea with Ballack, Essien and Lampard fighting for midfield space struggled to break down Rovers. Bridge tried to offer Chelsea width down the left flank and new signing Boulahrouz although solid at the back, look scared to cross the half-way line.

Chelsea's second goal came from Didier Drogba, a second-half substitute. Drogba powered down on Ooijer and used his strength to run past Ooijer to shoot high into the net past a helpless Freidel.

Although the points went to Chelsea, the performance didn't and as I have already said getting results without playing well Chelsea deserve more credit that criticism.

Typical of the footballing calendar, the Premiership takes a two-week break for the Euro 2008 qualifiers - some clubs need it and some clubs do not. Chelsea will be one of those clubs who will not want the break.

Chelsea's next opponents are Charlton Athletic at The Bridge on Saturday 9th September.

The Reserves kick off their season tomorrow Tuesday 29th August, with a home game against Fulham at The Rec, Aldershot Town FC kick off 7pm. Full LIVE coverage of the match will be on the message board from 6.45pm.

KEEP THE FAITH

COME ON CHELSEA

41 YEARS A BLUE