On Tuesday night, Chelsea conceded nearly as many goals against Roma as they have during their eleven Premier League matches to date. Indeed, their 3-1 defeat was massively uncharacteristic, especially when you consider that only Robinho of Manchester City has managed to score against Phil Scolari’s men on their travels so far this season.
The Blues are 1/2 (Stan James) to continue their 100% record on the road at Ewood Park, and it may be that Blackburn suffer a backlash after the visitors’ poor showing during the week. Chelsea have scored 14 goals in five away matches, so the logical step would be to back correct scorelines of 2-0 (6/1 Ladbrokes) and 3-0 (10/1 VC Bet) in their favour.
It may be a brave (or even foolish) man who backs Rovers, even at the lumpy price of 7/1 (Betfred). Paul Ince’s team have won just once at home this campaign, and their two defeats came against other members of the Big Four (Arsenal 4-0 and Manchester United 2-0). Therefore Paddy Power’s 11/8 that the Blues win to nil looks a tremendous price, despite the team’s capitulation in Rome.
After two recent substitute appearances, Didier Drogba may be afforded a league start at Ewood Park, and the Ivorian is 9/2 (Skybet) to open the scoring. Frank Lampard is certain to be in the starting XI, and the England midfielder is 6/4 (William Hill) to score for the third successive league match. It’s also worth noting that John Terry has scored twice in the past five outings, making the 8/1 (William Hill) about him notching on Saturday night a value proposition.
Rovers showed character to land a point at West Brom, despite being down to ten men for an hour, and its 7/2 (bet365) that they manage an unlikely draw in this game. Jason Roberts may be the player who can cause the Chelsea defence problems with his pace and power, and the striker is 11/1 (Blue Square) to send his side into a surprise 1-0 lead.