Wembley Bound Once More

Chelsea advanced to the FA Cup semi finals with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Stoke City at Stamford Bridge. John Terry scored one and created one as the Blues cruised into the last four, looking to defend the trophy won under Guus Hiddink at the end of last season.

Former Chelsea favourite Robert Huth was wearing the captain’s armband for Stoke City and nearly created the opening goal. The German latched on to a Rory Delap long throw, only for Sidibe to head over the bar.

Mikel then cleared off the line from Whitehead, after Hilario’s punch only reached the edge of the area. But Chelsea turned the pressure up midway through the half and were duly rewarded with the opening goal.

Malouda’s corner caused confusion in the Stoke defence, leading to a rushed clearance. Terry was alert enough to lay the ball back to Lampard, whose blast took a slight deflection on the way past Sorensen and in. The Danish keeper made a super save just before half time to deny Drogba and keep the visitors in the game.

Lampard crashed a half volley over the bar after a long throw from Ivanovic, whislt Huth headed a Stoke corner well wide as the second half commenced. However, Chelsea’s lead soon doubled and the tie was safe, as John Terry scored a fabulous header. The Chelsea skipper lost his marker Huth, before powering a header past Sorensen from Lampard’s corner.

Hilario made a sharp save to deny Ricardo Fuller late on, but despite a spirited performance, a Stoke comeback was always out of the question. 2-0 to Chelsea, and Aston Villa to face in the semis.