Chelsea vs. Arsenal: Second Half Game Thread

Parts of the first half have been like a highlight show for the astounding talents of the Oscar - Juan Mata - Eden Hazard trio. Amazing how much difference it makes to not have young Oscar as the proverbial right winger! Also helps to have Bacary Sagna hot in the midst of a shocker.

But sequences of super and intricate passing have been abundant, Eden Hazard's flicks making knees weak, Oscar's backheels unlocking seven defenses at the same time. Chelsea have jumped out to a quick two-goal lead, Mata's confident finish for the first (after a foul by Ramires in the buildup went uncalled - not the first missed call by the referee) and Frank Lampard slotting home the second from the penalty spot for his 195th career Chelsea goal. Ramires again was crucial, winning the penalty after Szczesny slid into him. Ramires then wasted an excellent chance at a third as Arsenal grew into the half and made somewhat of a contest out of it. A series of Walcott offsides is the most they can show for that though.

So, a solid 2-0 lead at the half. Seems familiar. Let's not fuck it up, yes?