Chelsea striker Diego Costa stole the show against Watford with a brace in the 2-2 draw. Even though it wasn't the win that the Blues were looking for, new boss Guus Hiddink was pleased with the players response.
Costa back with a bang
Chelsea striker Costa has come in for a lot of criticism this year, with people saying that he has lacked commitment. In their boxing day clash with Watford, the Spaniard certainly proved his critics wrong with an impressive brace as he looked to return to form.
The blues will be hoping that Costa can kick on from here and carry on this performance as Hiddink and his team face a gruelling festive period.
Hiddink pleased with response
New boss Hiddink was full of praise for his Chelsea team and felt that they had given him the perfect response.
The blues came from 2-1 down in the match, after Watford striker Ighalo put his side in front, showing great character.
Hiddink said that the game was 'intense' and admitted that he 'enjoyed the performance'. The Dutchman also went on to defend Oscar for his penalty miss saying he was 'unfortunate to slip', explaining that the main thing was he 'liked the reaction of the team very much'.
Missed opportunity
The draw against Watford will feel like a missed opportunity for the blues though, with the chance to move higher up in the Premier League table.
Even though manager Hiddink defended Oscar for his penalty miss, the Brazilian will know that his missed a great chance. Combined with that, Nemanja Matic will also be feeling responsible as his strange handball gifted Watford a penalty which they levelled up from.
For mistakes are part and parcel of the game, Chelsea will know that performances like this are just a stepping stone to clambering back to the top of the pile.
Chelsea no quick-fix
The blues still sit 15th in the table, 10 points outside the top six. Even though this may seem like a mountain, it really isn't knowing how unpredictable the league has been this season.
The team have to be realistic with what they think is achievable this season and what they actually want to achieve. Nothing will be solved quickly and the players know that, but with the fans behind them and players starting to return to form they could well be returning to their old selves.