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

Chelsea started slowly but have slowly taken control of proceedings.  Were it not for Lee Grant's heroics in the Stoke City goal, the Blues could be 2-3 goals to the good already, and really without ever making it out of second gear.

The only goal of the game so far has come, surprisingly, from a Chelsea corner, with Captain Gary Cahill winning a header, not for the first time, amongst the trees.  Half of Stoke's starting lineup are 6' or taller.  But no matter, Cahill beat Shawcross to the ball and headed home the 40th goal of his career and 4th of the season.  Fàbregas, of course, with the assist.  After not scoring a headed goal all season, Chelsea now have two in the last three games.

Marcos Alonso appeared to pick up an injury on the Chelsea goal and could be something to keep an eye for the second half.  He received a bit of treatment before soldiering on.  With Pedro suspended and Ola Aina not on the bench, it would be an interesting change to have to make.  David Luiz also appears to be hobbling a bit, but he'll probably be fine.

Stoke have posed a bit of danger off their own set pieces, but Azpilicueta & Co have been aware to that danger so far.  Chelsea could use a bit of improvement — other than the David Luiz and Fàbregas long balls, not much is really working — but so far so good for our 13th win in a row.

COME ON, CHELSEA!