The Man in The Shed

© 90MiN

26th October – An aerial bombardment

It is never more relevant to say that every game throws up its own unique challenges when you consider playing Burnley away. Everything will be coming down on you from a height – whether it’s the northern weather or simply the aerial bombardment which is the core of the Burnley way.

Following on from his impact as a substitute it was good to see Pulisic start. That aside, the team sheet was looking very familiar.

Switching to the Burnley lads there was one name that always got me annoyed – Barnes. Ever since the game at the Bridge a few years ago when he ran his studs down the back of Matic’s achilles I’ve disliked this guy. Anyone who saw Matic lose it and get sent off knows how Barnes uses every facet of “professional” play to his advantage.

Well the first thing in our favour was the weather – no rain and not much wind. So the home side had lost their “13^th man”.

In a patchy first 15 minutes it was interesting to see Zouma trying to bully Barnes – the opposite of what I was expecting.

Then the Pulisic show kicked off. Winning the ball back in midfield the guy sprinted into the area and shot “through” 3 defenders and into the corner. Great start.

Burnley responded well and forced a Kepa save. They continued to “win” free kicks in our half to set up the aerial bombardment with Barnes missing a header. The ball kept coming back at us as Abraham wasn’t able to receive and hold the ball up.

Then as half time approached Willian won the ball back in the Burnley half and fed Pulisic who went on another run, this time going right before shooting in via a deflection off a defender. Another goal earned from a high press.

The score was looking good but we still felt weak against crosses. On the positive side Pulisic was full of assists for teammates as well as his 2 goals.

The second half started with all the pressure from Burnley with a near OG from Zouma straight away. It took us 10 minutes to get into the game. Following a corner a cross from Mount and somehow Pulisic back headed it in for a perfect hat-trick.

Two minutes later and Willian makes it 4-0 and still half an hour to play.

After 70 minutes the Chelsea fans are “Olé”ing every pass.

Hudson-Odoi (on for Willian) dances into the area and appears to be tripped. Penalty says the ref., no says VAR. A booking for Hudson-Odoi 3 minutes after coming on !

Pulisic loses the ball in the Burnley half and then a screamer from 25 yards sails in for 1-4. Another game without a clean sheet. Five minutes left.

Another Burnley shot deflects off Tomori and now its 2-4.

The game ends but another weak final quarter and signs of panic.

So a great day for the young American. Another great away performance overall and the winning run continues.

Next up Man. United in the Carabao cup.