Another London derby concludes with Guus Huddink maintaining an undefeated record in two games against Arsenal as Chelsea manager. The interim manager is also undefeated since taking the position again after Jose Mourinho and the Blues agreed by mutual consent to part ways.
In a match full of anticipation with the return of Alexis Sanchez on the bench from a severe hamstring injury and Eden Hazard also on the bench after a month sidelined, Per Mertesacker was sent off for denying Diego Costa of a clear goalscoring opportunity off a sublime pass behind the defensive line from Willian. Costa then struck midway through the half, and Chelsea held on to claim an important win.
Energetic First Half
From the beginning of the match it appeared as competitive as the previous meeting where Chelsea, in September, achieved a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge. However, the early departure of Per Mertesacker resulted in a Diego Costa goal at the near post from a Branislav Ivanovic assist. To strengthen the defence, Arsene Wenger substituted French international forward Olivier Giroud for Brazilian defender Gabriel.
Although Arsenal ultimately were crippled when down to 10 men, their short passing efficiency proved to provide two chances from the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Mathieu Flamini. A few arguable fouls that could have resulted in penalties were not given for the duration of the match to the Blues by Clattenburg. All in all, even with the form of Diego Costa, Cesc Fabregas, and the defensive backline containing assist leader Mesut Ozil, the score remained 1-0 entering the second half.
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Gunners dominate the second half
Arsenal came back strongly after Alexis Sanchez was substituted into the match for Joel Campbell in the 56th minute. The Blues appeared to be exhausted and began to park the bus rather than push forward when having a man advantage.
A continuous amount of passes were exchanged from both sides of Thibaut Courtois's penalty box. Chelsea, who have been subpar in defending set pieces and crosses, managed to save the three points despite a few individual moments of massive pressure where the ball was being juggled all around the front of goal.
Young and exciting French international prospect Kurt Zouma was again a highlight for the Blues with his excellent defending while maintaining comfort alongside captain John Terry. Cesc Fabregas, the former Arsenal captain, earned the Barclays Man of the Match and was booed as usual when in possession.
What does this mean for both clubs?
Arsenal now remain in third place behind Leicester City and Manchester City. The Gunners are winless in three consecutive matches, the two previous resulting in draws. New signing and Egyptian international Mohamed Elneny did not feature in the match for the Gunners.
Chelsea hold a eight game unbeaten streak in all competitions which they will bring into their next match in the FA Cup versus MK Dons. Chelsea may not be in the title race, but they are proving that the relegation zone is not an area that fits their expertise.
Guus Hiddink stated in his post-match conference that Diego Costa is not "wasting any of his energy" when asked about how Costa appears to be more calm on the field. The injury that allowed Loic Remy to be substituted on is still being further evaluated.