Carefree Chronicles

Oct. 13, 2012 at 1:26pm with 19 notes

The Anatomy of the Hazard Goal vs Norwich

Of the four goals Chelsea scored in this game, this was the only pure counter attacking goal. From the moment Mata got in control of the ball after winning the challenge against Wes Hoolahan to Hazard scoring the goal, it took a total of 10 seconds, with only one pass making up the build up. Of course, the sublime through-ball from Mata and the cool finish from Hazard were vital to this goal, but here are a couple of other things that made this goal happened.

(1) Terry’s clearance: It was a strong header from the defender who was struggling with the physical presence of Grant Holt the entire game.

(2) Wes Hoolahan

(3) The supporting runs from Torres and Hazard: Torres dashed to the right from the start; Hazard, meanwhile, went straight down the center until he saw Mata cutting in, then the Belgium drifted to the left. The runs pushed Norwich defense back allowing Mata to dribble forward without any obstacles in his way.

(4) Mata’s patience: Norwich defense did fairly well to close down passing options to Hazard and Torres as Mata came forward. The Spaniard took his time and didn’t force an early pass which could have been intercepted. He waited for the right time and unleashed a beauty of a through-ball.