Didier Drogba proved Newcastle’s undoing for the second time in a week as the Toon crashed out of the Carling Cup.
Drogba’s 77th minute strike was enough to see off the Magpies in what was a largely even contest. The industrious striker slotted home a well worked free kick after Nicky Butt had brought down Arjen Robben just outside the area.
The game, as well as the result, echoed last week’s league meeting, with Newcastle again hitting the woodwork with the score still tied at nil-nil.
Obafemi Martins cracked a stunning 30 yard shot off the underside of the bar but his 27th minute shot rebounded clear. Replays seemed to show that the ball had not crossed the line.
In a half short of chances Shevchenko almost made Newcastle pay for some lax defending, ghosting in to hit the post just before half time.
Chelsea’s attacking intent was shown at half time when Lampard replaced Makelele but it was arguably Newcastle who had the best of the early period of the second half. But with Martins looking isolated, Newcastle found it difficult to convert possession in to chances.
And while it’s true to say that Newcastle had done just about enough to at least force extra time, they never really threatened after Chelsea took the lead.
Fat Frank had a chance to make it 2-0, hitting the post in injury time and in the end it was Chelsea’s class that outshone a battling Newcastle performance.
Player Ratings
Shay Given 7
Did well and couldn’t do much about the goal.
Solano 6
Looked solid, but lacking in pace.
Taylor 7
Didn’t do much wrong.
Ramage 6
The run at centre back is doing him good.
Huntington 6
Early nerves put to rest.
Milner 7
Ran all night.
Butt 7
Solid.
Parker 6
Still not quite 100%
Emre 7
Some good touches.
Dyer 7
Went close a couple of times. Clearly enjoying his football.
Martins 7
Looked isolated, but still gave 100%
Siberski
Didn’t really have chance to make an impact.