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It was billed as the millionaires against the misfits,Chelsea’s multimillion pound stars against Adams cobbled together bargain buys but 40,000 fans at Stamford Bridge were in for a shock. The afternoon started with a Russian flavour as Chelsea’s new owner was introduced to the home fans for the first time and as the ever smiling billionaire took his seat the scene was set for what many believed would be the formality of gaining three points.
Chelsea started brightly and within 3 minutes found themselves in the lead after a Veron corner was nodded into his own net by Nalis. At this point the Chelsea faithful must have thought the easy ride was there for the taking but they didnt bank on the spirit of Adams bargain buy side. Although Chelsea applied further pressure on the City defence shortly after the opening goal, Walker found very little to do. As the clock ticked away City began to creep back into the game.
Just before half time the foxes were rewarded for their hard work and determination when a well rehearsed free kick found the back of the Chelsea net. Izzet swung in the freekick and Scowcroft rose to angle the ball into the Chelsea net. The equaliser was no less than City deserved. They had played with heart and determination since the opening Chelsea goal.
With just five minutes remaining to half time we held our breathe hoping City could get through to the break on level terms, sadly it wasnt to be after new Chelsea signing Mutu fired a 35 yard freekick at the Leicester wall, the ball was picked up again by Mutu on the rebound and struck cleanly into the net. It was a knife into Leicester’s heart so close to the half time break.
As the players trooped off for the break you had to wonder what Adams would say to his disheartened troops. Whatever he did say worked though, Leicester came out eager and positive, ready to do battle with their Chelsea counterparts.
City were forced into their first change on the 55th minute mark when Impey was replaced by the speedy Gillespie. Both teams were still looking dangerous with chances falling to either side. In the 68th minute the game saw its first ugly moment,Gerimi saw the red mist decend when he entered into a two footed challenge with City midfielder Scimeca. The referee didnt hesitate to send the Chelsea player to the dressing room.
With less than 20 minutes to go and with the Foxes having a numerical advantage Adams decided to make changes bringing Deane and Hignett on and taking Nalis and the ever chasing Dickov off. Minutes later a great run from Gillespie nearly brought City a deserved equaliser but Scowcroft headed the ball just over from the penalty spot.
Still City pushed forward but the numbers were evened up when Rogers lunged at Gronkjaer and the City man was dismissed. The glare from Adams said it all, it was a needless sending off and at a time when City were really getting to grips with the home side.
City however were not quite done and Deane found himself in front of his marker but sadly failed to find the net. In the dying moments Scimeca was sent off for bringing down Cole. As the final whistle sounded and City trooped off the pitch you couldnt help but feel sorry for them, they had put a lot of hard work and heart into the 90 minutes and had been desperately unlucky not to come away with a point.
There were plenty of positives to be taken from the game, City proved they are a match for the best teams in the league, they showed a spirit and determination not seen since the O’Neill days. If they play like this against the rest of the Premiership then survival is certain. Adams will be upset with the dismissals but can have no complaints at the performance, every player gave 100 percent today.
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