With all the excitement surrounding the games involving the two Manchester clubs, it could have been easy to forget there were eight other games today. With Blackburn already relegated and Chelsea unable to make it into the top four, there seemed little to play for in this subdued game at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea fielded an understrength side to rest players for next Saturdays Champions League final. Di Matteo gave first team starts for defender Sam Hutchinson and striker Romelu Lukaku for the first time this season. There was no room in the starting line-up for Torres or Drogba, which may suggest they could start together in Munich.
Despite being understrength, Chelsea easily dominated the game by holding the majority of the possession and having more chances on goal. They got on the score sheet with half an hour gone when Terry headed in Lukaku’s in swinging cross from the right wing. And just three minutes later they double their lead. Michael Essien muscled his way past three Blackburn players before feeding in Meireles, who punted the ball from the edge of the box into the back of the net.
Blackburn got a goal back in the second half when Scott Dann flicked the ball to Yakubu who headed in their consolatory goal. However it was too little, too late for Blackburn who have had a torrid time on and off the field this season. Even though they have put in spirited performances – not least their 3-2 victory over Manchester United in December – it has not been enough to keep them up. There have been many problems backstage, with fans displeased with manager Steven Kean and Indian owners Venky's.
Chelsea finish the season 6th, their lowest since the placing in ten years, and will have to decide if interim boss, Di Matteo, is the right man to lead them into next season. But before that decision takes place the Blues must try and win The Champions League in Munich. If they do, Di Matteo’s position must surely be assured.