Heads Held High!

Chelsea’s Premiership hopes came to an end with a 1-1 draw at the Emirates
with Arsenal. There were, however, no tears as José Mourinho’s men – reduced to
10 with the sending-off of Khalid Boulahrouz – showed immense spirit, resilience
and strength of character to come from a goal behind, level and then so very
nearly win it – Joe Cole was never offside!

So, when newly crowned Manchester Utd came to Stamford Bridge, the much
anticipated Premiership decider turned out to be little more than a run out for
various stand-ins on both sides. From a Chelsea perspective, it was great to see
Scott Sinclair and Ben Sahar get a game, although the injury to Sinclair
tempered the moment. The 0-0 draw and the fact a more in-depth Chelsea 2nd XI
dominated another 2nd XI gives no indication of what will happen when the two
sides meet at Wembley on May 19th.

Further to their great show at Arsenal and the way that their support was
received by José Mourinho and his players, Chelsea supporters were also boosted
by the news that Graham Poll has, because of the abuse he has received, decided
to retire as a referee. The songs sung in his direction when he refereed
Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with (his side) Manchester Utd showed that the Chelsea
support is still as sharp as ever.

As well as “You’re not fit to referee!” and, when a Chelsea penalty appeal
was turned down, “That’s why you’re Champions!”, a new ‘classic’ sprung forth,
the chant in question being, “The Graham Poll Show, the Graham Poll show!” to
which “Cheat!” was subsequently added and chanted in the appropriate place.

See ya later Poll – you won’t be missed!

Although no longer able to herald their side as Champions, the good thing for
Chelsea supporters is, despite the heartache for some who haven’t got Final
tickets, the majority of Blues (that I know at least) remain positive, and look
forward to the name of Chelsea FC being inscribed on the trophy as 2007 winners
of the FA Cup after a successful return to a new Wembley.

Forward the Chels!