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Spurs’ surprise loss at relegation-threatened
West Bromwich Albion on Saturday opened the door for Chelsea to
close the gap on the top four and they capitalized on that
lifeline with an assured performance over the Champions League
finalists.
Frenchman Giroud headed what proved to be the winning goal in
the 32nd minute, meaning the striker has now scored 17 league
goals with his head since the start of 2015-16, more than any
other player in Europe’s top five leagues.
Liverpool pressed but Chelsea held on to move within three
points of the visitors who are third. On Wednesday, Chelsea have
a game in hand over the Merseysiders at home to Huddersfield
Town as they bid to set up a thrilling final day next Sunday.
“One month ago, it was impossible to imagine we could fight for
a place in the Champions League,” Chelsea manager Antonio Conte
said. “Now, there is hope.”
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp handed fullback Nathaniel Clyne
a rare start, with Trent Alexander-Arnold moving into midfield,
while there was no Alvaro Morata for Chelsea.
Liverpool started on the front foot with Roberto Firmino and
Sadio Mane forcing goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into smart saves.
But somewhat against the run of play, Giroud climbed highest to
nod home Victor Moses’ cross and give Chelsea the lead.
The goal rejuvenated Chelsea and they could have had a
quick-fire second, but Cesc Fabregas drilled the ball wide.
Things were not going to plan for England's Player of the Year
Mohamed Salah on his return to his old club, with the Premier
League top scorer booked for diving in the 39th minute.
After the break Chelsea did have the ball in the net again
through Antonio Rudiger, but the defender was flagged offside.
Liverpool almost found an equalizer late on, but substitute
Dominic Solanke could only manage to head over.
The result blows the top four race wide open. Chelsea and
Tottenham have two games to play, while Brighton are Liverpool’s
only remaining opponents. If the trio all win their remaining
games, Chelsea would miss out on the Champions League next
season but any slip up could see them sneak in at the last.
“We have a final next Sunday,” Klopp said looking ahead to the
visit of Brighton. “That is how life is.”
(Reporting by Pete Hall; editing by Ken Ferris)
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