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      Carabao Cup semi-final draw LIVE: Tottenham land horror tie as Arsenal get blockbuster last-4 clash – latest updates

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      THE draw for the Carabao Cup semi-final has concluded – and some blockbuster ties are coming up in the new year.Arsenal were first out of the hat as they landed a tough clash against trophy chasers Newcastle.While Premier League leaders Liverpool take on Tottenham in the standout Carabao Cup semi-final match.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…More from AmorimManchester United boss Ruben Amorim is adamant that winning silverware won’t fix everything after his team’s Carabao Cup elimination.We looked comfortable in the first-half even when we were trailing.Tonight there is nothing I can say to you about it. I will analyse it tomorrow, take a night to think.We cannot think winning silverware fixes everything. It will be a long wait.Our goal iis to win the Premier League. How long will that take? I do not know.Ruben AmorimSky SportsCopy linkCopiedMore on PostecoglouTottenham boss Ange Postecoglou “really liked” the way his team played despite the two howlers that almost cost them a place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.I liked the whole match, are you not entertained?! There you go, what do you want?! Do you want a scrambling 1-0 and the studio is probably going into meltdown at my lack of tactics!I love the fact that we just go out there and take it to oppositions, the fact we have so many absences at the moment, goalkeepers, centre-halves, left-backs, we have kids on the bench and yet these boys are trying to maintain their principles about the football we are trying to play.And if we get through this period, we are going to get enormous growth out of it, but I really liked how we played tonight, although those two goals do taint the moment.Ange PostecoglouSky SportsCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAmorim on RashfordManchester United manager Rubgen Amorim confirmed Marcus Rashford still has a future in his team.Tomorrow we have training, Marcus Rashford will be there preparing for the next game.And we’ll see the selection for next game.Of course [Rashford has a future at Man Utd]. He’s a Manchester United player.Everybody has a future in Manchester United.Ruben AmorimSky SportsCopy linkCopiedAnge Postecoglou reactsTottenham boss Ange Postecoglou admitted his team “made it harder than it should have been”.Obviously we made it harder than it should have been, for sure!We were in control, played really well, we looked like we were going to manage the game, but two unfortunate moments, the first one affected Fraser [Forster] for a bit and the second one came as a result as that.Then we had to scramble a bit, we showed some character in the end, got a fourth and through to the semis!Ange PostecoglouSky SportsCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup semi-final fixturesObviously the draw means Arsenal and Tottenham will be at home in the first leg against Newcastle and Liverpool respectively.We might get a North London Derby in the final!Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup semi-final fixturesReminding you all that the Carabao Cup semi-finals will be played over two legs.They will take place across the week commencing January 6 and the week beginning on February 3. The winners will battle it out at Wembley in the final on March 16.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup drawAnd there we have it:Arsenal vs NewcastleTottenham vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedTottenham vs LiverpoolCopy linkCopiedArsenal vs NewcastleCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup drawAnd we are ready to find out the first pair.And it’s…Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup drawSmall commercial break and the draw will get underway.Not long to go now…!Copy linkCopiedCarabao Cup drawAnd off we go!Time to find out the semi-final pairs of the Carabao Cup!Copy linkCopiedWhen will semi-final ties take placeThe Carabao Cup semi-final ties will take place over two legs across the week commencing January 6 and the week commencing February 3.The winners will meet in the huge final at Wembley.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedA reminder of the quarter-final resultsWednesday, December 18Arsenal 3-2 Crystal PalaceNewcastle 3-1 Brentford Southampton 1-2 LiverpoolThursday, December 19Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedCountdown to the draw…The huge draw for the Carabao Cup semi-final is set to take place at approximately 10.30pm GMT.Here are the all-important ball numbers:ArsenalLiverpoolNewcastle UnitedTottenham HotspurCopy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdTottenham are through and join Liverpool, Arsenal as well as Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.Draw is up next and we will be covering it live, don’t go anywhere!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-3 Man UtdTottenham ace Yves Bissouma scores an own goal and we still got stoppage time to go.Crazy match!!!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man UtdGoal!Son Heung-min!!!!Copy linkCopiedTom Barclay from TottenhamTHIS stadium is in complete shock. Fraser Forster has handed not just one but TWO goals back to Manchester United.Three-nil up and cruising, Forster tried to play out from the back as his manager wants him to but got it all wrong.First, his weak, simple, short pass to Radu Dragusin went straight to Bruno Fernandes who teed up sub Joshua Zirkzee to reduce the deficit.Then, remarkably, Forster had a free-kick played back to him by Archie Gray and despite having acres of space, his touch was heavy and his attempted clearance was deflected into his own net by another sub, Amad Diallo, closing him down.No one could believe it including Ange Postecoglou who had his head in his hands.Ex-Spurs stopper Kasey Keller, who told SunSport this weekend that Postecoglou was wrong to make Forster to play out from the back given it is not his natural game, must have been wincing somewhere.Suddenly, this game has an incredible tension for its denouement when it never needed to.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man UtdAnother terrible mistake by Tottenham goalkeeper Fraser Forster!The ball is passed back to Forster and Manchester United sub Amad Diallo chases it.The Spurs keeper takes his sweet old time to clear or switch the ball and Amad slides in front of him to block his clearance before the ball hits the back of the net!Twenty more minutes to go!!!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man UtdGoal!Amad Diallo!!!!!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Man UtdAwful mistake by Tottenham goalkeeper Fraser Forster as he tries to play out the back and gives the ball away to Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.Fernandes passes to Joshua Zirkzee who may have put Man Utd back in the game.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Man UtdGoal!Man Utd hit back with Joshua Zirkzee!!!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Man UtdTottenham are sealing their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals!Djed Spence delivers a stunning long ball that releases Dominic Solanke who dances around Lisandro Martinez and Jonny Evans before firing past Altay Bayindir on 54 minutes.Just when Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim was planning three changes!Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Man UtdGoal!Dominic Solanke makes it three!!!Copy linkCopied More

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      Tottenham 4-3 Man Utd LIVE RESULT: Spurs secure spot in Carabao Cup semi-final despite nervy end to frantic clash

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      TOTTENHAM have beaten Manchester United 4-3 to secure their spot in the Carabao Cup semi-final.Dominic Solanke tapped in to make it 1-0 on 15 minutes after Altay Bayindir fumbled Pedro Porro’s thunderstrike.Seconds into the second half, Dejan Kulusevski stroked home to make it 2-0 to the hosts.Solanke got his second of the night on 54 minutes with a superb finish to make it 3-0 before Man Utd got one back through Joshua Zirkzee.Minutes later, Amad Diallo pounced on a horror error from Fraser Forster to make it 3-2 and set up a grandstand finish.Spurs’ nerves were eased after Son Heung-min’s corner controversially flew straight past Bayindir in goal to make it 4-2 at the death.Man Utd weren’t done as Jonny Evans headed in from a corner to make it nervy once again for Spurs.But Tottenham hung on to secure a 4-3 win and progress to the Carabao Cup semi-final.Match result: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdTottenham team: Forster, Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence, Sarr, Bissouma, Maddison, Kulusevski, Solanke, SonMan Utd team: Bayindir, Lindelof, Yoro, Martinez, Dalot, Eriksen, Ugarte, Mazraoui, Antony, Hojlund, FernandesCarabao Cup draw LIVEFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Having to trust the processMan Utd fans have some wishes granted this year.Fed up with The Glazers, in came Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the financiial saviour.Wanting ten Hag sacked, they got their wish and Ruben Amorim arrived.However, despite these two positives, they are being asked to trust a process without knowing what it actually is.There is no short-term soluton but surely things can only get better.Copy linkCopiedSpurs to get to know Reds wellTottenham now prepare for this weekend’s Premier League fixtures where they welcome Liverpool to North London.Having drawn each other in the Carabao Cup, it looks like this pair are guaranteed at least four games against each other this season.This will be a tough test for Ange Postecoglou as he looks to derail the fantastic start Arne Slot has made to life at Anfield.Copy linkCopiedAnge quotes fellow AussieIt is hard not to like Ange Postecoglou, he is a man’s man.Most managers swerve questons and rarely say what they think, Tottenham’s Australian manager does not play that way.When he quizzed about how crazy his side’s matches are with seemingly all attack and no defence, he seemed to channel his inner Russell Crowe when he replied….’are you not entertained?’Legend.Although duriing the game he seemed to want three more goals from his free-flowing attack.That said, with his tactiics, he could have been telling his team to switch to 2-1-7.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedThe answers everyone craves to findWhen Sir Jim Ratcliffe is quizzed about the club’s future, he is good at deflecting and saying neutral things fans want to hear without actually answering anything.Ruben Amorim is honest about the size of the task at hand and just how long it will take to change.It is obvious that it cannot happen with the majority of this squad, he is not a magician.That then brings you onto the question of what the owners offered him to get him to accept this role.Currently, the only logical answer is a huge war-chest for the forthcoming transfer windows but that is not so easy to do in the modern game with PSR rules.It will be interesting to see how things unfold, after all, Erik ten Hag spent in excess of £600m and nothing improved.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBoss leaves door open for forwardDuriing his post-match interview, Ruben Amorim was also asked about the obvious elephant in the room, Marcus Rashford.The manager said that they will training tomorrow and Marcus will be part of that.When pushed further as to whether he still had a future at the club, Amorim said ‘of course, everyone does’. Copy linkCopiedRuben being realistic about jobSpeaking with Sky Sports about tonight’s game, the new manager seems to have learnt nothing new in North London:We looked comfortable in the first-half even when we were trailing. Tonight there is nothing I can say to you about it. I will analyse it tomorrow, take a night to think. We cannot think winning silverware fixes everything. It will be a long wait. Our goal iis to win the Premier League. How long will that take? I do not know.Ruben AmorimMan UtdCopy linkCopiedCarabao Cup semi-final drawJamie Redknapp and Jamie Carragher have made the draw:Arsenal vs NewcastleTottenham vs LiverpoolSome cracking games to look forward to there.Copy linkCopiedBoss opens up on performanceThe Tottenham manager was asked his thoughts on tonight’s game and whether their open nature causes him concerns:We made it harder than iit should have been. We made two mistakes and it hit us. I like the whole bit mate, are you not entertained? I like teams who play entertaining football. Obviously we cannot give goals away like tonight, we want to win trophies.Ange PostecoglouTottenhamCopy linkCopiedAnge looking to keep his promisePostecoglou may have regret saying it at the time but when he told the media that he always wins trophies in his second season with a club.The tongue-in-cheek comment may come back to haunt him but as it stands, they are two games away from a final.Tottenham fans would love nothing more than him to keep that impressive managerial record intact.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Tom Barclay in North LondonTOTTENHAM are through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals – but that does not tell half the story from this mad night in N17.Ange Postecoglou’s hosts  were wiping the floor with Ruben Amorim’s sorry side thanks to Dominic Solanke’s double either side of a Dejan Kulusevski’s strike.But then Fraser Forster attempted to play out from the back and got caught out TWICE.It saw subs Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo inflict unnecessary stress on the home fans – until Son Heung-min scored directly from a corner.There was still time for Jonny Evans to head in a seventh goal of the game in fourth minute of stoppage time – of course there was – but Spurs managed to see it out.The result means Postecoglou can still make good on his bold claim that he “always wins something in his second season”.Arsenal, Liverpool or Newcastle await in the last four.Copy linkCopiedAmorim with early headache to fixWhatever the Portuguese manager has planned for the club long-term, you cannot win matches when you concede so easiily.They have problems with the keeper position and none of the defenders can be certain of a starting spot.There is no communication, they look like it is the first time they have ever played the game at times.Now Amorim has to work out who he can fix it.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedSpurs march on to semi-finalsTottenham will be checking out the semi-final draw now from the changing rooms to see who they get.Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle have been waiting for them.What odds on a North London derby over two legs?Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdNo Spurs fan can say they don’t get value for money on their ticket prices, that is for sure.This will be a painful defeat for the visitors, something they really need to learn from.Postecoglou can forget the performance now and just focus on the result.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 4-3 Man UtdThe referee brings an entertaining game to a close in the capital.Most neutral fans wanted to see another half hour of that.Spurs are into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-3 Man Utd90+5. It seems a lot of Man Utd fans left when Spurs’ fourth goal went in.They may live to regret that.As a corner is whipped in, Evans rises to head it and beats Forster to give the Red Devils a small glimmer of hope.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedGoal – Jonny Evans (Man Utd)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90+4. The mood has changed once again in North London.If Spurs can ensure they are in that semi-final draw all will be forgotten for their calamity keeper.They be considering his place for the next round though.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90+2. Zirkzee looks to get a shot away iin the box.It is well blocked, at the expense of corner.Fernandes’ cross is poor and it is easily headed clear.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd90. Surely there is no way back for the visitors now.Tottenham have a two-goal cushion to protect.We are going to have six added minutes however.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 4-2 Man Utd88. This game should be on Comedy Central.Son takes a corner and puts an inswinging cross in towards goal.Bayindir completely misses the ball and it ends up in the back of the net.He claims he was fouled but the referee is not interested and there is no VAR in place tonight.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Heung-min Son (Tottenham)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd86. If you were a Spurs player and had arranged a lift home from Forster after the game, you would be thinking up ways to let him down right now.He is having a nightmare and only a daredevil would get in a car with him behind the wheel, head shot to bits from this performance.Tottenham fans are just hoping they can hold on for the win here.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd84. Amad looks to take on Gray for pace . He tries to get to the byline and cut it back into the box.Forster blocks for a corner but it is decided that it was out of play before he touched it.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd82. Wow. Just wow.Man Utd try a shot from outside the box that is straight at the Tottenham keeper along the floor.He decides to go ‘full Onana’ and clears it off the line like a backtracking defender.This is mental.To dare is to do.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-2 Man Utd80. Often teams leave cards on the seats in the stadium for the fans to hold up and make some kind of image for the cameras.Tottenham could do with leaving blood pressure medication on the seats in North London, proving they look out for their fans.They were safely in that semi-final draw and now it is anyone’s guess how this finishes.Copy linkCopied More

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      Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock Rovers LIVE RESULT: Guiu bags hat-trick as Blues top Conference League table – updates

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      CHELSEA has thrashed Shamrock Rovers 5-1 in the Conference League.Marc Guiu headed in for the game’s opener on 22 minutes after a defensive howler from the visitors.Minutes later, Markus Poom’s heavily deflected strike equalised for Shamrock Rovers.Guiu got his second of the night before Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted in to make it 3-1 to Chelsea.Right on half-time, Guiu completed a stunning first-half hat-trick with a superb header.Left-back Marc Cucurella added a fifth with an excellent finish just before the hour mark.Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers secured their spot at the top of the league phase table.Match result: Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversChelsea team: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Disasi, Veiga, Cucurella, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Madueke, Nkunku, George, GuiuShamrock Rovers team: Pohls, Lopes, Grace, Cleary, Honohan, O’Neill, Poom, Watts, Burns, Farrugia, KennyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Stamford Bridge with our live blog below…Match reportChelsea were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.But the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.Copy linkCopiedWinning run to continue?Looking at their next five games, you’d have to say they have a great chance to continue racking up victories.Though it is a tough, grueling schedule for all those involved…It’s an away trip to Goodison at the weekend before a home derby with Fulham on Boxing Day.Away trips at Ipswich and Crystal Palace round off the festivities.Copy linkCopiedUnhappy star man tonight…Marc Guiu was given a 10 by Lloyd.But Enzo Maresca admits tonight’s star man is UNHAPPY.Purely as the two names ahead of him in the pecking order – Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku – are also doing well.He told TNT: “Marc is a bit unhappy as Nicolas and Christopher are doing well.”When you’re a nine and another nine is doing well it is a matter of being questioned. It is important that they work hard day-by-day and then they get a chance.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – AttackersNONI MADUEKE – 7: His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times. It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7: Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third. Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth. TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7: Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease. Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10: Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands. The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks. Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019. Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – MidfieldersCESARE CASADEI – 4: Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8: His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his first Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – DefendersSunSport’s Lloyd Canfield runs the rule over tonight’s Chelsea players, starting with those at the back.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7: Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG – 6: All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge. He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6: A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6: A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40.  Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8: Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.Copy linkCopiedEnzo speaksEnzo Maresca admits being ‘very happy’ with the performance from his young side tonight as they swept away Shamrock Rovers.He told TNT Sports: “I am very happy with the performances and results. In these kind of games, it is easy not to do. They showed how professional they are and this is the right way.”Since we started we have tried to share minutes – tonight was for young players. Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George are still very young, but we are very happy with them.”In these kind of games it is easy not to do and have the right performance, but they know if they don’t work properly they are not going to play.”Copy linkCopiedSome runIt’s now 11 games unbeaten in all competitions for Chelsea after tonight as they continue to roll on nicely.More impressively, as Andy pointed out earlier, it’s now EIGHT wins on the bounce for the Blues.Their best run of form for eight years!Copy linkCopiedChelsea’s European resultsGranted, they’ve not come up against too much.But it’s been a really good campaign up until now for Chelsea’s second string.Chelsea 4-2 GentPanathanaikos 1-4 ChelseaChelsea 8-0 NoahHeidenheim 0-2 ChelseaAstana 1-3 ChelseaChelsea 5-1 ShamrockCopy linkCopiedMore from KDHOn his goal, Dewsbury-Hall added: “That is what the gaffer wants, he wants the attacking midfielders to sniff out opportunities.”I am happy to get another one.”Copy linkCopiedTop scorersIt looked set to be a Chelsea man at the top of the scoring charts with Christopher Nkunku in a three-way dead heat before kick-off.This has been his competition and it looked like he had a huge chance to top the standings.But his team-mate MARC GUIU has pipped him to the post with his hat-trick tonight!Three Blues players amongst the top scorers….6 – MARC GUIU5 – Christopher Nkunku, Krzysztof Piatek, Johnny Kenny, Milos Pantovic, Afimico Pululu4 – Kevin Denkey, Frederik Ihler, Jonathan Ikone, Joao Felix, Matheus AiasCopy linkCopied’Good vibes’Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall says playing in this competition is helping ‘relieve’ the pressures of Premier League football and giving fringe players a chance to shine.He told TNT: “Another good night at the Bridge.”A lot of people will say we are big favourites and honestly, we probably are, but in football it is not easy to keep winning.”Six wins out of six is pretty good.”This tournament is relieving a lot of pressure for some of the people who play in the Premier league and it’s a chance for young academy lads to make their debuts.”It is a good vibe at the moment.”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsOne final look at tonight’s stats, with Chelsea registering five goals, from ten shots on target, from 20 shots in total.A nice piece of symmetry there and Enzo Maresca will be delighted with his fringe players for the work they put in.They registered over 3x as many completed passes as the visitors, with the possession hitting over 80% at one stage before the substitutions in the second half.Copy linkCopiedPerfect sixSix wins from six games.A ridiculous =21 goal difference after scoring 26 goals in those six games.Chelsea miles clear of the opposition heading into the latter stages.As for Shamrock Rovers – ouch. They’ll be absolutely gutted to just miss out on the top six after a stellar run so far.Copy linkCopied’Smiling again’Chelsea hero Joe Cole told TNT Sports: “To come out of the cold be professional and clinical. Young lads make another appearance and Chelsea moved the ball really well.”Everyone at Chelsea is smiling again.”Copy linkCopiedFT!Chelsea round off a perfect Conference League phase in style!CHELSEA 5-1 SHAMROCK ROVERSCopy linkCopied90 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversTwo minutes added.Copy linkCopied89 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversLate chance for Shamrock Rovers to get another one on the night.Cleary’s goal bound attempt is blocked and Burke’s follow-up is well saved by Jorgensen.Copy linkCopiedSecond half view from SunSport’s Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea about to clinch their eighth win in a row in all competitions – their best run of form since 2016.A sign of the marked upturn in confidence under head coach Enzo Maresca, although it helps when you face the cannon fodder of the Conference League like they have tonight in Shamrock Rovers.Three of those eight victories have been in Europe so let’s not get carried away with things.Shamrock Rovers, Astana of Kazakhstan and Germans Heidenheim did not present the biggest test for a billion squad Blues squad. Copy linkCopied85 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversDelightful play from George who works space inside the box.He sits the defender down with a fake shot to work it inside onto his left foot and his curled attempt for the far corner is well blocked on the line by a retreating defender.Copy linkCopied83 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversFinal Chelsea change with seven minutes to play, as the final goalscorer left on the park is replaced.OFF: Dewsbury-HallON: Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopied81 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversAnd by the way, it was a foul that was as clear as day.But just outside the box.Copy linkCopied80 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversReally, really nice play from Shamrock to work through the thirds and eventually Burke picks it up 25 yards from goal.A change of pace from him as he darts towards the box before going to ground.The referee makes an odd movement towards him as if he’s about to award a free kick or penalty, or something anyway. But he waves play on.Copy linkCopiedCan’t stop scoringCopy linkCopied72 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversThe game a bit stop-start at the minute as Shamrock Rovers make a couple of quickfire double substitutions.Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace LIVE RESULT: Gabriel Jesus hits stunning HAT-TRICK as Gunners reach Carabao Cup semi-final

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      ARSENAL have beaten Crystal Palace 3-2 to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals.Gabriel Jesus scored a stunning second-half hat-trick as the Gunners fought back in some style after going a goal down early after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s strike.Former Gunner Eddie Nketiah netted a late header to set up a thrilling finale, but the hosts held on and will be in tomorrow’s draw for the final four.Kick-off time: 7.30pm GMTLive stream: NOW TVTV channel: Sky Sports Main EventArsenal starting team: Raya; Partey, Timber, Kiwior, Tierney; Jorginho, Merino, Nwaneri; Sterling, Trossard, JesusPalace starting team: Henderson; Guehi, Chalobah, Lacroix; Kporha, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell; Sarr, Eze; MatetaFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the Emirates with our live blog below…Owners with January dilemma to addressThe big question in the Arsenal boardroom over the next couple of weeks will no doubt be the impending transfer window.They will feel that they have backed Mikel Arteta with transfer funds but whether they give him a kitty to strengthen in the middle of the season is another thing.Despite all the signings, they do not seem to have the required depth needed to challenge for silverware on all fronts, that was underpinned tonight by having to bring Odegaard on at the interval.It will be interesting to see how things develop as this will tell us whether they feel the Spaniard has already had enough to achieve their goals.Copy linkCopiedForward hits back at criticsArsenal’s hat-trick hero spoke with Sky Sports after the game on his performance against Crystal Palace this evening.You know what, I am the kind of player who can score goals. I can drop off, come short and link play. But there are times where the goals do not come.That is why I am working a lot in training on my finishing. I think today my hard work paid off.Gabriel JesusArsenalCopy linkCopiedProof is in the puddingGabriel Jesus fits the mould of the many strikers who focus far too much on linking play than having that hunger to score.Dropping deep, making runs into the channels out wide and offering yourself as an option to midfielders takes one of the main threats that is required of a striker away.All too often teams with these kinds of players get quality balls into the box and there is nobody there to get on the end of it.It seemed this evening that the Brazilian spent more time in the penalty area and as a result, he got his rewards for it.Copy linkCopiedHome is where the heart isCrystal Palace have a difficult run of fixtures ahead, where they will play two of the top four in their league fixtures.The one thing they can look forward to is having so many home fixtures to utilise.Selhurst Park can be an intimidating place to visit when The Eagles are on it and they are more than capable of an upset.Copy linkCopiedArteta waits for semi-final drawThere are some interesting potentials for The Gunners in the next round of the Carabao Cup.Newcastle beat Brentford 3-1 to book their place, while Liverpool edged out Southampton 2-1 at St Mary’s.With Man Utd and Tottenham still to play, it could even be a North London derby in the semi-finals to add a little spice to the competition.Copy linkCopiedReady Eddie makes claim for startEddie Nketiah will have done himself no harm this evening in letting the manager know he is hungry for starts.Oliver Glasner seems to pick Jean-Philippe Mateta as his first-choice striker but he may have to rethink his tactics.If he could make room for both strikers in his side, it would certainly add some firepower to The Eagles.The former Arsenal man took his goal well to make it a nervy end to the game in North London.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedGunners off on their travelsArsenal will need to work on their away form over the Christmas fixture period.They have some tricky fixtures on the road coming up.Arteta will be pleased that they have finally scored from open play this evening to get that monkey off their back.Copy linkCopiedBoss shows where priorities lieAt a crucial point in this game, with the scores level, Oliver Glasner brought off Mateta and Eze.It seemed more important to the Palace manager to have his players fit for their weekend clash with The Gunners at Selhurst Park.Always a strange one to get your head around when you have got as far as the quarter-final stage.Securing their Premier League status for another season comes with far greater financial rewards, that is for sure.Copy linkCopiedYoungster needs to bounce backEthan Nwaneri will have to put this performance behind him.It is never nice to get the hook at half-time but Arteta saw fit for him to make way for Martin Odegaard.The young midfielder has a long career ahead of him, there will no doubt be a few poor performances from time to time.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGunners up against it, Jesus savesIt was a night to remember for Gabriel Jesus.The striker had been on something of a goal drought this season and questions were being asked about his returns for Arsenal.He answered his critics in the perfect fashion as he bagged three goals to see his side through to the semi-finals.The Brazilian just has to try and find some room in his bag for that match ball now.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedItalian gets back to basicsJorginho is never going to set a football pitch alight.That is not his game, what he does mainly goes under the radar.However, what he did tonight was just what The Gunners needed as he patrolled the midfield areas breaking up play.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 3-2 Crystal PalaceIt was a game of two halves at The Emirates.Once Odegaard came on, they looked a different team.Might be a good time for him to ask for a pay rise, he carries this Arsenal team.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 3-2 Crystal PalaceThe referee brings the game to a close.Arsenal are through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals.An entertaining game in North London.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90+4. It is baffling how many empty seats there are in the ground now.This game is finely poised still but apparently missing the traffic is more important than catching the action.’Prawn sandwich brigade’ as Roy Keane would call them.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90+2. Time is running out for The Eagles.They need to throw caution to the wind now.You don’t get anything for running teams close in football.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace90. Nketiah is looking lively up top.He beat Saliba for pace there and cuts the ball back from the byline but no Palace player can get on the end of it.We may yet have late drama here.Don’t forget, there is no extra time tonight, if the visitors equalise we will have penalties.There will be five added minutes.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace88. The Gunners should have enough to see this out.Chalobah felt he was fouled by Merino so grabs the ball as he goes down.The referee disagrees and penalises him for handball.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace86. Kiwior is coming off for Gabriel.That says a lot about Arteta’s mindset now.He wants to hold on to what they have.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedArsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace84. Well, that should make for a more exciting climax.As the cross comes into the box, Nketiah gets up and heads past Raya from some distance.Great goal from the former Gunner.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Eddie Nketiah (Crystal Palace)Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-1 Crystal Palace82. Well this has definitely made the trip to The Emirates worthwhile for all those Arsenal fans.A Gabriel Jesus hat-trick is rare commodity.It is like having watched the moon landings live.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-1 Crystal Palace80. Jesus is slotted clean through on goal.As Henderson comes out to close him down, he passes it into the far corner.It is a hat-trick for the Brazilian.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-1 Crystal Palace78. Henderson comes out to the collect the ball on the edge of his box.He almost carries the ball out of the penalty area with him.Arsenal are briming with confidence right now.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-1 Crystal Palace76. You feel Arsenal will have too much for the visitors now.With Saka and Odegaard on the pitch, they are able to open up Crystal Palace at will.It is hard to see a way back into this game for Glasner’s side.Copy linkCopied More

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      Unify League latest reaction LIVE: Fallout as European Super League RELAUNCHED and set to rival Champions League

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      THE European Super League is set to be RELAUNCHED with a whole new format as organisers battle for it to rival the Champions League once again.Unlike the first and widely criticised Super League concept, which saw the 12 breakaway rebels – including the Prem Big Six – guaranteed entry, all positions will be earned by domestic performances in the previous campaign.The Unify League would consist of 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.Qualification would be similar to the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League.There would be four leagues – Star League, Gold League, Blue League and Union League.The top two divisions, Star and Gold, would each have 16 teams in them, split into two groups of eight.The groups of eight would play each other home and away, a total of 14 matches per club each season.The bottom two divisions, Blue and Union, would have 32 teams each, split into four groups of eight -they would also play each other home and away.In the Star and Gold leagues, the top four of each group would play a two-legged quarter-final.In the Blue and Union, it would be the top two teams from each group making up the quarter-finals.Most read in FootballThe winners of those matches would then progress to a “final four” week of one-off matches to provide the champions of the four different leagues. Those games would be played on a neutral ground.The Premier League would have three guaranteed entrants in the Star League – and two English teams would go into the Gold League.Up to five further slots for Prem teams would be spread across the remaining pair.No formal start date has been set, SunSport understands that there is a provisional target of competition launch in September 2026.Follow ALL the latest reaction from our live blog belowThe Unify League would need to pass FOUR Uefa tests The Unify League would need to pass four tests — administrative and financial, sporting and technical, ethical, and sporting merit — to be approved. Having sporting merit approved would mean securing the agreement of European Leagues and the European Club Association (ECA), both of which have been strongly opposed to the concept.A22 said it has been involved in consultation with clubs across Europe, including in the Premier League, and that teams would qualify via their domestic competitions.Copy linkCopiedUefa say the Unify League won’t replace Champions LeagueUefa insiders insist there is almost no chance of the Unify League replacing the Champions League, which was this season revamped with a 36-team, single-league format replacing the old group stage. According to The Times, one senior figure described the latest plan as “bulls***” and a “Christmas pantomime”.Copy linkCopiedHow many English teams will take part?The Premier League would have three guaranteed entrants in the Star League.Two English teams would go into the Gold League.Up to five further slots for Prem teams would be spread across the remaining pair.Copy linkCopiedHow does the Unify League work and who plays in it?The proposed competition would see 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.All positions will be earned by performances in domestic competitions the previous campaign – just as it currently is with the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.The top two leagues would be called the Star League and the Gold League, with 16 teams in both divisions, divided into two groups of eight.The third and fourth divisions would be named the Blue League and Union League.In the final eight, made up of two teams from each of the four groups in the top two leagues, would consist of two-legged quarter finals, followed by one-legged semi finals at a neutral venue in the same week as the final. It is reported that there would then be 14 group stage fixtures, with the winners playing 18 games in total.The Blue and Union Leagues would work in the same way. Copy linkCopiedPremier League silent on European Super League relaunchUnlike three years ago, when the so-called Big Six, agreed to join the ESL before backing out almost immediately after backlash, this time no Prem club has offered a comment on the relaunch.Only Real Madrid and Barcelona are thought to have confirmed their entry if Uefa accept A22’s proposal.We’ll be keeping our eyes and ears open…Click here for everything you need to know about the Unify League.Copy linkCopiedHow will A22 Sports Management Company fund the Unify League?In terms of how A22 intends to fund the Unify League, its big idea remains the creation of a global streaming platform, called Unify.The service would offer fans the chance to watch these games for free, with adverts, or without adverts for a fee.Many industry experts question whether this is economically feasible, although UK-based sports streamer DAZN and Fifa have just announced that this is the business model they are trying for next summer’s Club World Cup.Coincidence? Manchester United fans protested against the idea of a European Super League in 2021Copy linkCopiedWhy many believe the new Unify League will be acceptedMadrid-based A22 Sports believes that the governing bodies will have no choice but to grant it permission to try to establish this league.It comes after last December’s landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice ruled that the response by Uefa and Fifa to the original European Super League proposal in 2021 breached European Union law.A22 believe neither body can impose any preemptive punishments on clubs interested in the idea.Its 2021 plan of creating a 20-team league, with 15 permanent members has been erased.And replaced with a four-league format of 64 clubs.A22 is confident its new proposal addresses the biggest criticism it received in 2021 from fans across Europe, but particularly in the UK.Fans fumed over the 2021 plans radical departure from decades of tradition, where European football is something clubs earn via their performances in domestic leagues.It also believes that many clubs are unhappy with the so-called Swiss model that Uefa has introduced to all three of its club competitions this season and they want complete control.Copy linkCopiedHow will the top two leagues (Star and Gold) work?Copy linkCopiedBack to basics of the Unify League (as per promoters A22)Copy linkCopiedFans mock Unify League’s marketingOne supporter wrote on X: “The Unify League is arguably the worst named product I’ve ever seen. “You went back to the drawing board after you was shut down by fans and clubs and came up with this??”A second said: “This has got to be the worst name 😂😂😂.”A third chimed in: “Regardless of thoughts about the tournament, whoever came up with the re-branding should be fired.”Never going to take a league called the unify league seriously. Sounds worse than Carabao Cup 🤣🤣.”Another added: “It remains a very stupid idea purely driven by greed.”Copy linkCopiedHow will each group work?Rankings and number of teams per domestic league are best on a European competition co-efficient.Swiss Football DataCopy linkCopiedFootball lovers say Unify League is a ‘waste of time’One fan wrote on X: “Massive waste of everyone’s time. As useless as the new World Club Cup. Stop trying to please faceless clubs.”A second added: “How do people expect all these games to be played seriously??”While another said: “Good riddance to the Super League. European clubs are just jealous of the money in the Premier League.”A fourth fumed: “When in the current 11 month calendar is this debacle going to be played? “It’s not worth the paper the proposal is printed on.”One more wrote: “Are traditional rivalries now ready for prime time bonding events?”Copy linkCopiedA22: “Disputes are counterproductive”A detailed letter from A22, promoters of the Unify League, to Uefa General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis, asks to “move forward collaboratively”. Critics of the new format remain, with one club calling the relaunch “a Perez pantomime”.Copy linkCopiedWhat clubs have agreed to be in European Super League?Spanish titans Real Madrid and Barcelona have committed themselves to the European Super League.And they are the driving force behind A22 – the group behind the controversial league.Madrid President Florentino Perez rubber-stamped his clubs backing of the competition.Copy linkCopiedHere’s what’s different this time:Open Access: No automatic spots for big clubs. All 96 teams must qualify annually.Four-Tier Format: The top two tiers, “Star League” and “Gold League,” each have 16 teams in two groups of 8. Teams play 14 group matches, with the top 8 advancing to the knockout stages.Streaming-First Approach: Matches will stream on a “Unified” app. Fans can watch for free (with ads) or pay for an ad-free experience – similar to Spotify’s model.Legal Backing: Organisers @A22Sports, linked to Real Madrid’s president, believe Uefa is legally obliged to permit the competition after a December 2023 EU court ruling.Copy linkCopiedWill the Unify League be accepted by Uefa?The European Super League company and A22 will now seek permission from Uefa to move forward with plans.They anticipate that the plans will be PASSED THROUGH.This is thanks to the December 2023 ruling from the European Courts that stated that Uefa went against EU law with their attempts to stop a breakaway tournament.Copy linkCopiedThe original Super League vs this new idea: The differenceFollowing a huge backlash, A22 Sports, the Madrid-based company behind the original idea in 2021, was made to drop the initial project.It initially involved a 20-team league with 15 permanent members including Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham.Now, following 12 months of consultation, they are proposing a four-league format – divisions known as Star, Gold, Blue and Union.96 clubs who would qualify via performance in their domestic league. There would be 16 teams in the top two tiers and 32 each in the other two.Copy linkCopiedWill the Unify League get off the ground?SunSport’s Martin Lipton assesses whether the Unify League will actually happen…The biggest complaint about the original European Super League was it was a closed shop.But the Unify League proposal would see teams qualify on merit, just as they do for the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.But whether people accept it is another matter.Many people will still think this is just another version of the same old thing, the rich wanting to get richer.Maybe that’s right, but I can see the appeal for the clubs here – one of which will be a prize fund much bigger than what is currently offered for competing in Europe.I think there’s a genuine chance that this could be the first thing that brings down the UEFA dominance of club competitions.But there’s a lot of obstacles in the way.It’s proposed that it could start in September 2026.I don’t believe it can be as quick as 18 months, but money talks.We are into uncharted territory.This is very different from April 2021 when the whole thing crashed and burned so quickly.This could be real.This could happen and if it did, would change the face of footballCopy linkCopiedWhat’s the format of the relaunched European Super League?There would be FOUR leagues: Star League, Gold League, Blue League and Union League.The top two divisions, Star and Gold, would each have 16 teams in them, split into two groups of eight.The groups of eight would play each other home and away, a total of 14 matches per club each season.The bottom two divisions, Blue and Union, would have 32 teams each, split into four groups of eight.They would also play each other home and away.In the Star and Gold leagues, the top four of each group would play a two-legged quarter-final.In the Blue and Union, it would be the top two teams from each group making up the quarter-finals.The winners of those matches would then progress to a “final four” week of one off matches to provide the champions of the four different leagues. Those games would be played on a neutral ground.Copy linkCopiedWho will play in the Unify League?The proposed competition would see 96 teams from across Europe taking part each year.All positions will be earned by performances in domestic competitions the previous campaign – just as it currently is with the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.Copy linkCopiedWhat is the Unify League in basic terms?22 Sports have rebranded the European Super League and called it the ‘Unify League’.This new format will have an annual qualification and there will be FOUR groups.They have redesigned the proposal to address the criticisms of its predecessor.Teams will play between September – April, alongside domestic football competitions and leagues.Copy linkCopiedFans slam “toxic” Real Madrid owner One raging footie lover wrote on X: “Florentino Perez is a mad man. He’s a cancer on modern day football.”A second said: “Y’all just creating a whole lot of nonsense for fun at this point.”A third added: “At this point you have to question Real Madrid’s influence in all of this. Why is the owner so toxic?”A fourth fumed: “Just f*** off. I thought we were done with this s***!”Copy linkCopiedWhat is A22 Sports Management?The Madrid-based company was specifically created in September 2022 with the aim of pushing through legislation for the European Super League in the aftermath of the failed attempt in 2021.The firm was created in tandem by Euro powerhouses Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus who were the loudest proponents of the breakaway league.Juventus left the project after they were threatened with expulsion from the Champions League, although are still believed to be supportive of it.Copy linkCopiedNew ESL will be free to watchAccording to A22, the new European Super League would be free for fans to watch.It will be streamed on new platform called “Unify”.Unify is the proposal for a state-of-the-art digital streaming platform.A22 Sports’ official website wrote: “We will democratise football by allowing fans everywhere to watch new European Super League games for free.”A22 Sports also suggest subscription tiers would also be offered for those who prefer to view matches with minimal advertising while enjoying advanced features such as favourite camera angles, live match data and other interactive options.They add: “Distribution partnerships with broadcasters, streaming services, clubs and content providers will also be an important component of the Unify experience to ensure ease of access for fans.”Copy linkCopiedIf accepted by Uefa and Fifa, when will the Unify League launch?While no formal start date has been set, Sun Sport understands that there is a provisional target of competition launch in September 2026.Copy linkCopied More

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      Bournemouth 1-1 West Ham LIVE RESULT: Unal’s incredible free-kick rescues point for Cherries after Paqueta’s pen

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      BOURNEMOUTH and West Ham were forced to share the spoils in what turned out to be a Monday Night Football clash.The Hammers took the lead through an 87th-minute Lucas Paqueta penalty.However, Enes Unal hit back just three minutes later with a spectacular long-range free-kick. RESULT: Bournemouth 1-1 West HamFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below… More

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      Southampton vs Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Spurs run RIOT with three goals in first 13 MINUTES against lowly Saints

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      SOUTHAMPTON fans called it a night early as Tottenham put FOUR past them inside of 30 minutes.Home fans could be seen streaming out of the ground after the fourth goal went in, having conceded three in the first 13 minutes.Ange Postecoglu’s side had won just one of their last eight in all competitions before the trip to the South Coast, with the game ending 5-0 to the visitors.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from St Mary’s with our live blog below… More

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      Chelsea vs Brentford LIVE RESULT: Jackson & Cucurella strike as Blues win FIFTH straight game to close gap on Liverpool

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      MARC CUCURELLA and Nicolas Jackson scored as Chelsea won a FIFTH straight game to close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.Cucurella – who slipped over twice last week to concede two goals against Tottenham – responded in the best way possible with a superb leaping header, before Jackson fired home a powerful effort after a lovely Enzo Fernandez pass.Bryan Mbuemo scored a late goal to give Brentford hope but Chelsea held on for a win that leaves the Blues two points off Liverpool, who have a game in hand.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from Stamford BridgeA Sunday that was more of a stretch than super ends with a victory for those in blue.And after Brighton were beaten by Crystal Palace, and Manchester City somehow slipped up against Manchester United, it was Chelsea’s turn to come out on top in a rivalry of their own against West London neighbours Brentford.With Liverpool and Arsenal dropping points yesterday. it’s Enzo Maresca’s team that are the big winners this weekend, and who now lie just two points behind the Premier League leaders.With Christmas around the corner, the heat is about to be turned up at the top, and the Blues will fancy their chances of silverware in 2025.On this form, who would write them off?Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedChelsea not ready for title tiltChelsea are just two points off leaders Liverpool following a fourth win in succession – but Enzo Maresca believes his side are not ready to challenge for the top prize.It’s not about how many games we win. It’s about being realistic. There are things we have to do better. That’s why I said for me we are not ready.Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMaresca: We controlled the gameEnzo Maresca was not concerned by the chaos of stoppage time in which his Chelsea side came under immense pressure.Instead, the Italian boss preferred to look at the bigger picture, and a game that his side dominated for large periods.We were in control of the game except for the last 10 minutes when we concede. It’s normal. We created chances and we could have scored more. We deserved to win the game.”Enzo MarescaBBCCopy linkCopiedMoises looks to Kante for inspirationMoises Caicedo put in another eye-catching shift in the heart of the Chelsea midfield – and then revealed afterwards that he hopes to idolise another Blues great.The Ecuadorian admitted life is good at Stamford Bridge right now, but he wants to keep working in the style of N’Golo Kante to ensure this current form persists.We are happy. This feeling is so good for us, but we’ll keep working to keep up and I’ll try to do my best. N’Golo Kante is my idol, he was a very big player.Moises CaicedoBBCCopy linkCopiedNew Blues taste the differenceThis season, Chelsea have earned 15 points more (34) than they did from the same corresponding 16 fixtures last term (19).It is the biggest such difference among Premier League side this campaign.Copy linkCopiedFrank: We deserved a drawBrentford boss Thomas Frank insisted his side deserved at least a point despite being dominated for large periods at Stamford Bridge.The Bees missed some good opportunities in the second half with the game at 1-0, especially when Robert Sanchez saved from Christian Norgaard and when Fabio Carvalho hit the crossbar.But the Danish coach also admitted that Chelsea are an impressive outfit that are very much in the Premier League title race.We played a very good game here and were unlucky not to get a draw. Some big chances we missed in the end. We managed for the 90 minutes to go toe-to-toe with Chelsea, especially in the second half. A draw would have been fair. They are right up there in the title race. They’re very good.Thomas FrankBBCCopy linkCopiedChelsea’s Jack in the boxThis evening’s encounter at the Bridge was Nicolas Jackson’s 50th Premier League appearance for Chelsea so what better way to mark it than with the winning goal.Jackson’s thumping strike to make it 2-0 made it 12 goal involvements in his last 14 games (nine goals and three assists).Copy linkCopiedFrom Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea got three points but Brentford got their revenge on artful Marc Cucurella.The Spanish left-back put Chelsea ahead but with his team clinging on at the death resorted to dreadful playacting to thwart Brentford.At the final whistle he was confronted by Bees’ sub Kevin Schade and in the ruck picked up his second yellow card of the match meaning he will now be banned for next Sunday’s trip to Everton.Just desserts.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Stamford BridgeSince the start of May, Chelsea have scored more goals (51), won more games (15) and earned more points (49) in the Premier League than any other side.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Chelsea 2-1 BrentfordThe final whistle goes and Enzo Maresca screams to the heavens in delight before shaking the hand of Thomas Frank.The nature is less good-willed on the pitch, however, and following a set-to with Kevin Schade, Marc Cucurella is shown a second yellow card and then a red by Peter Bankes.It’s a disappointing end to the evening for the Spaniard, who had earlier scored his first Premier League goal for the club with a terrific header.Nicolas Jackson doubled Chelsea’s lead in the second half, but the Blues were then made to sweat in a game they dominated by Bryan Mbeumo’s late strike.Maresca’s men held on, and are now just two points behind leaders Liverpool.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+6. Chelsea are keeping the ball upfield now. They’re almost there.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+4. Cucurella goes into the book for a lunge on Carvalho, and you get the impression the Spaniard is going through his little book of dark arts to see this one out.Seconds later, he’s involved in a clash with Collins that earns Chelsea a free-kick they scarcely deserve.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90+2. The game has entered seven minutes of stoppage time, and the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge has changed markedly.It’s the travelling fans making all the noise, and the Bees have new hope – and a corner.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-1 Brentford90. Brentford haven’t given up yet!In the final seconds of the 90, the Bees have a goal back, one beautifully tucked away by Bryan Mbeumo.Moises Caicedo is caught out high up the pitch, and the visitors quickly transition downfield.Kevin Schade’s pass through the middle is perfect, and the manner in which Mbeumo skips away from Marc Cucurella is sublime.Faced only by Robert Sanchez, the Cameroonian keeps his cool and buries beyond the goalkeeper before retrieving the ball to race back to halfway.They couldn’t, could they?Copy linkCopiedLate hope!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford87. Caicedo and Madueke are the latest to go close.In fact, with the former trying his luck, it’s now only Colwill from those that started the game not to register a shot for the Blues.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford85. Both sides are seeing the game out now, and would be happy for the final whistle.Tosin fancies this period as his chance to shine though, and steers a diving header wide of goal.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford82. Nicolas Jackson takes his leave after scoring the goal that sees off the Brentford fightback.Christopher Nkunku is on in the striker’s place for the final eight minutes.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 2-0 Brentford80. Nicolas Jackson makes it two and Chelsea have the points in the bag!This is more like it from the Blues too, who win it back deep in their own half thanks to Moises Caicedo. The former Brighton man moves it on to midfield partner Enzo Fernandez, who sends a raking pass upfield for Jackson to chase.Fronting up to Ethan Pinnock, there’s only one thing in the striker’s mind as he drops a shoulder and slams low beyond Mark Flekken.Copy linkCopiedSigned and sealed!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford77. Carvalho equalises! No, it’s off the woodwork!A flying move from the Bees down the right sees one sub in Ajer centre a low cross to another, Carvalho, to thump across the underside of the crossbar from five yards out.So, so close to an equaliser.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford75. With 15 minutes left on the clock, Nicolas Jackson nearly seals it for the hosts but his long range thumper travels agonisingly wide.Meanwhile, Fabio Carvalho, Kristoffer Ajer and Kevin Schade are on for Yoane Wissa, Mads Roerslev and Yehor Yarmoliuk.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford73. An incredible save from Sanchez to deny Norgaard!The corner from the right has Chelsea all in a panic, and after the ball had bounced messily around the 18-yard box, it fell invitingly at the right foot of the Brentford captain.The sidefooted volley looks destined for the back of the net until the home keeper soars through the air and tips over.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford71. Do Brentford believe? Lewis-Potter makes inroads on the left and wins a corner off Fernandez right in front of their travelling fans.The supporters roar encouragement, and the players are moving with an extra spring in their step.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Brentford69. Into the final quarter of the match, and it’s around the time that – while it remains 1-0 – you begin to wonder if Chelsea will rue the opportunities they have passed up.And right on cue, Wissa goes through on goal, only to be denied by Sanchez – and then the offside flag.Copy linkCopied More