Chelsea vs. Manchester City, FA Cup: Half-time report

Pellegrini's ploy is working so far, though more thanks to Chelsea's wasteful passing and often slow passing movements in the final third.  Other than a couple really well-worked moves between Fabregas and Pedro, and then the great combination between Fabregas, Hazard, and Costa for the goal, Chelsea have struggled to break through the massed City ranks.  The final few minutes of the half were a bit better from the boys in blue, but overall, it's been a disappointing showing.

Oh, and let's not forget the lazy defending on City's equalizer, with youngster Faupala scoring as he blocked Azpilicueta's clearance.

Buoyed by the youth — five debutants in the visitors' lineup, alongside first-teamer Iheanacho — City started brightly, but Chelsea then settled things down and took the sting out of the game.  But we haven't really built on that, even as a few select players, like Pedro (who's hit the post) and Fabregas are looking very good.  Others, like Willian, are not exactly having the best of times out there.  A sub would not be remiss there, especially after his exertions against PSG.

So, all to play for, everything to lose.  Come on, Chelsea.