Chelsea vs Crystal Palace: Player Ratings – Fantastic Oscar & Costa, Team is Finally Back

Chelsea grabbed their second away of the season by defeating Crystal Palace 3-0 at Selhurst Palace today. The result also marked first win during the second reign of manager Guus Hiddink. Oscar, Willian and Diego Costa scored the goals as the Blues showed signs of recovery following the disastrous first half of the season.
Let’s see how the Chelsea players rated.

Thibaut Courtois: 6.5
He fumbled the ball couple of times due to bad weather conditions. Otherwise, it was another solid outing from the Belgian international.

Kurt Zouma: 7.5
He was the best among the defensive lot. He constantly troubled the entire Palace attacking line-up and helped the Blues in achieving their second consecutive clean sheet.

John Terry: 6.5
He had some nervy moment in the initial phase of the game, but once Chelsea grabbed the game, it was smooth sailing for him.

Branislav Ivanovic: 6.5
He handled the threat of Zaha and Lee quite well. It was a much-assured performance from him as compared to recent weeks. Also bombed forward on some occasions.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 7
He was good in defence and was a constant threat on the flanks for the Palace defence.

John Obi Mikel: 7.5
He has been a revelation since the arrival of Guus Hiddink. He shielded his defence well allowing Cesc Fabregas to go forward. He also played a major part in Oscar’s goal.

Cesc Fabregas: 7
The Spaniard finally looked back in form. He constantly went forward and was a constant threat to the Palace defence.

Eden Hazard: NA
He hardly got a chance to impress before leaving the pitch due to a groin injury 16 minutes into the game.

Willian: 7.5
He’s the most consistent Chelsea performer this season and he continued his superb form with a stunning 20-yard strike.

Oscar: 8
He was brilliant in the number ten role. He linked up brilliantly with Diego Costa. He scored the first goal and played an important role in the second.

Diego Costa: 8.5
The Spanish international is back in form. He scored a goal and provided an assist. It’s now three goals in two games for him.

Subs:

Pedro: 6

He came on for Hazard. He troubled the Palace defence with his pass but was wasteful in his crosses.