Chelsea’s FA Cup triumph over Preston North End taught us four things.
Chelsea defeated Preston North End 4-0 at Stamford Bridge, scoring three goals in only eleven minutes in the second half to advance to the Emirates FA Cup’s fourth round.
After a disappointing first half in which they dominated possession of the ball but created few opportunities, Mauricio Pochettino’s team found their rhythm 13 minutes into the second half when Armando Broja headed in Malo Gusto’s cross for his second goal of the year.
Preston’s impressive first-half defensive display was soon forgotten as two goals in quick succession came from substitute Thiago Silva, who nodded in from Cole Palmer’s corner, and Raheem Sterling, who hammered a free kick past goalkeeper Freddie Woodman.
Near the end, Enzo Fernandez scored from a yard out to give Ryan Lowe’s team, who are currently 14th in the Championship, one more reminder of the distance.
Alfie Gilchrist, a 20-year-old local, made a few appearances off the bench recently, so Chelsea offered him a chance to play from the beginning against Preston. The young player created an impression in his hour on the field.
He looked poised on the ball and played some excellent defense, but it’s not an easy scenario to be forced into in a game that you’re expected to win, let alone win comfortably.
He looks like another player from Chelsea’s academy who could go onto have a great career in the game.
