Chelsea FC deservedly won 5:0 against West Ham, even on aggregate. It is becoming increasingly likely that the Blues will play internationally next season
West Ham’s European hopes had already receded into the distance before the London clash at Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea would have kept their cards safe with a home win. With this knowledge, the Blues started much more actively and Jackson had the first chance (10th minute).
Pochettino’s team became more and more comfortable in attack, while the Hammers were extremely hesitant. Both Palmer’s 21st goal of the season (15th) and Gallagher’s 2:0 (30th) were only preceded by clean defending in the first instance. The Blues were virtually undisturbed when converting the second balls
Alu goals galore
An appealing Chelsea side also scored from a corner through Madueke (36′), and a little later Gallagher hit the crossbar (38′). Bowen did the same twice (16, 44) for the visitors, who were weak in attack but rarely dangerous. With a little more luck, it could have been 3-2 at the break. But it would not have been deserved
The Hammers probably should have got off to a lightning start in the second half – but Chelsea did. Chalobah played Madueke through with a through pass, who unselfishly crossed for Jackson. 4:0, and again it was somehow too easy (48′).
A little later, West Ham put up a fight: Emerson shot over from six meters (53′) and a direct free-kick from Ward-Prowse had to be deflected over the bar by Petrovic (55′). Shortly afterwards, the Blues regained control of the game – and never really relinquished it
Bowen for the third
Bowen nevertheless managed the feat of hitting the crossbar a third time in the closing stages (79′) before Jackson completed his brace to make it 5:0 (80′).
Chelsea, who are still within touching distance of sixth place in the Europa League (two points less than Newcastle), temporarily overtook Manchester United (level on points with one game in hand) thanks to their resounding victory in the London clash, who play Crystal Palace on Monday evening (9pm).