Diego Costa and Willian share the man of honours, in our opinion, after each providing a goal and an assist in Chelsea’s 3-0 win at Crystal Palace.
The Brazilian-born duo tore the Eagles defence to shreds with a combination of power and guile. As a result, they both deserve 9/10 ratings.
Costa squared for another Brazilian, Oscar (8/10), to fire the Blues ahead on 29 minutes. Cesc Febregas (8/10) made 104 passes – more than any other player. And his best came from the halfway line to find Costa in the buildup to Oscar’s opener.
Oscar indirectly assisted Willian for the game’s second goal, which came on the hour. The former Internacional playmaker was dispossessed moments before Willian spanked a wonderful long-range effort into the top corner.
SEE MORE:
Oscar goal video v Crystal Palace proves Fabregas still has magic touch
Willian goal video v Crystal Palace: Chelsea star hits net with jaw-dropping strike
High on confidence, Willian dribbled though the Palace defence 25 minutes from time, burning past multiple defenders before firing in a low shot which was parried into the path of Costa, who tapped home for his third goal in as many Premier League matches.
All of Chelsea’s goals were scored without Eden Hazard (4/10) on the pitch. The Belgian limped off and was replaced by Pedro (7/10) on 16 minutes, after injuring himself, seemingly in what looked like a fairly innocuous challenge with Joel Ward.
SEE ALSO:
(Video) Eden Hazard injury: Chelsea star limps off after innocuous tackle by Joel Ward
Diego Costa goal video v Crystal Palace: Chelsea striker maintains goal-a-game record in new era
Away from their attack, Chelsea’s most impressive performers were left-back Cesar Azpilicueta (8/10) and John Obi Mikel (also 8/10). Azpilicueta made seven tackles, four interceptions and four clearances as the Blues kept their second clean sheet in a row, while Obi Mikel barely put a foot wrong and justified Guus Hiddink’s decision to start him ahead of Nemanja Matic.
Chelsea player ratings: Courtois 7; Ivanovic 7, Zouma 7, Terry 6, Azpilicueta 8; Mikel 8, Fabregas 8; Willian 9, Oscar 8 (Matic – 88 minutes – n/a), Hazard 4 (Pedro – 16 minutes – 7); Costa 9.