An early strike from Captain John Terry who says that he is 'desperate' to win the FA Cup from a Damien Duff corner, which cannoned off Solano on the line and nutmegged his own 'keeper, ended the chance for Alan Shearer to retire with a winners medal in his back pocket.

Although Chelsea got the win this was the worst of three games played so far this week. There is more urgency, desire and passion at an OAP's afternoon tea dance than was on display last night.

Seeing the pics of the 'Special One' venting his anger and frustration at some of his highly paid stars and watching him rip up his little notebook into tiny pieces of paper was was worth the admission money alone. Prue comedy and genius from the Special One.

Credit to the travelling Toon Army who packed out the Shed End with 3,000 and sang their hearts out all night. Also kudos to those male topless t-shirters braving the cold London night. Mind you I can imagine that it was warmer down here than 'up Norff.' Sorry to announce that there were no female topless t-shirters to be spotted.

What next. No doubt the press and members of the Newcastle contigent will have a pop at little Shaunie, after his innocuous clash with the Toon's Robbie Elliott. Contact was minimal and Ref Steve Bennett was harsh in producing the red card to Elliott right at the end.

Saturday sees our 'nemesis' team from last season, Manchester City at The Bridge. A win will see Chelsea have a firm one-handed grip on the Premiership title.

COME ON CHELSEA!

40 YEARS A BLUE!