Stoke City vs. Chelsea, Premier League: Half-time report

A fairly even affair so far at the Britannia, with both sides creating chances and working a few good opportunities, but so far, no goals.

Jack Butland, as last time, has been great and his best has been matched by Asmir Begovic's outstretched hand that stopped Glen Johnson from scoring a highly annoying goal.  Stoke have been very threatening off their right, with Shaqiri vs. Baba turning into a very one-side contest and not in favor of the Chelsea man.  It's one thing to get beat 1-v-1, it's entirely worse to lose track of your man repeatedly.

It's better news further up the pitch, with both Hazard and Pedro looking lively while Willian's putting in the hard work in the middle (and making really bad passes).  We just need Costa to do less dribbling, less strutting about, and more poaching inside the penalty area.  The striker did draw (another) great save from Butland after Pedro set him free on a run into the box.  Great move, even better save unfortunately.

Also, can we please stop running offside on free kicks?

So, scoreless after 45.  Another 45 to find a winner and not concede.  Let's go.

UP THE CHELS!