A Derby is a match between 2 clubs who's grounds are resident, in the same City or town. So yeah, Chelsea V QPR is a derby. Maybe Adobe Sun does not remember when QPR were indeed our arch enemies when they were in the top flight. Back then a Chelsea V QPR game was a derby in EVERY sense of the word.
When we played them a while back, the atmosphere was as hostile as it has always been. The difference was that most of us "old enemies", from both sides, are now too old to be bothered with it all. So we just taunted each other with banter. Which is a lot lot safer (and funnier), than trying to beat someone's head in.
Shaun was perfect last night, and in front of Capello too, so that was fortunate. He had an amazing all round game. His tackling has improved ten fold lately too. He came cleanly away with the ball so many times last night. Very pleased for him.
In fact until Mikel got himself sent off again, which I actually thought he deserved, (if the relevant stupid law concerning any "studs up" tackle is to be adhered to), we were well on top. That shook us up for a while for sure, but thankfully with a smart change of formation and 10% more from every player, we fought our way back on top.
I was impressed again by the players attitudes. They all just refuse to give in and that really is something to see.
Ballack is looking more like the Ballack we all want, with every game. Very commanding game from him. Carvalho was back for this game and it was great to see him in charge at the back. Joe cole played some lovely stuff and Bridgy worked his arse off all night. Great performance all round considering the loss of so many important players that we are experiencing right now.
I think Grant, ten Cate and Steve are doing a fine job between them. I know some Chelsea morons will never give Grant a break but thats because they are thick as shlt. They don't understand exactly what loyalty is. They think that Jose was Chelsea was Jose. They think that Jose was more important than the club. They support Jose and not Chelsea. In fact those thick <unts have probably forgotten why they booed Grant in the first place.
I support Chelsea Football Club. I dont have to agree with everything that they do, but I will always support my club. Grant is manager/coach of Chelsea, so I support him too. Jose was arguably the best manager we ever had and I loved the bloke but he is history. He is a memory. The future is what is important. A lot of fans I know who wanted another superstar manager after Jose, are accepting Grant now. I think considering the situation that Grant walked himself into at Chelsea, he has handled himself exceptionally well, on and off the pitch. He'll do for me.
C'mon U Blues