Although Chelsea had most of the best chances in Saturday’s win over Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, the Gunners are too talented of a bunch to go an entire 90 minutes without creating a decent look or two. Fortunately, we had Thibaut Courtois in goal.
xG map for Chelsea - Arsenal. This Arsenal performance wasn't exactly a disaster of lore, but solidly outplayed in a big match. pic.twitter.com/hwoBnWp8IM
— Caley Graphics (@Caley_graphics) February 4, 2017
One chance in particular stood out. In the closing minutes of the first half, Arsenal defender Gabriel found himself all alone for a free header at goal as Arsenal played a short corner and the Chelsea backline fell into disarray. Conte was not pleased, to say the leat.
@hashim0307 also this pic.twitter.com/JPDnGCFf4j
— Deavy (@Deavy) February 4, 2017
That’s poor Angelo Alessio, assistant first-team head coach receiving the brunt of Conte’s anger, though as someone who’s worked with Conte for a long time, he’s probably used to them. After the match, Conte explained the reason for the 'abuse' inflicted on the man who has worked alongside him since his days managing Siena in Italy's second-level league six-and-a-half years ago.
"Angelo Alessio is a victim, always! During the corner I wanted to change some positions, because in the second corner Arsenal put six men [forward] and we lost a man on the edge of the box. It was very dangerous. I tried to shout to my players, and then I said to my assistant 'try to send the message to change the situation'."
"When the message didn’t arrive and after the corner we risked them scoring a goal, I thought to send a message. Angelo knows me very well, and my passion in this moment. It’s very important to keep the concentration, not only the players but the assistants and all the staff. We win and lose together."
-Antonio Conte; source: Chelsea FC
Win together, lose together has been one of the major themes of the season and it extends beyond just the playing staff.
While Chelsea would go on to win the match rather comfortable, we did give up a couple more pretty good chances during the game, and one late consolation goal as well. Something to work on at the training ground then. Always improve!