Source: Telegraph
Chelsea overcome spirited Coventry to reach FA Cup semifinals
Didier Drogba continued his renaissance under Guus Hiddink and recorded his third goal in four matches to hand Chelsea victory in their FA Cup quarter-final clash with Coventry at the Ricoh Arena that was confirmed with a goal on the counter attack finished by the unlikely figure of centre-back Alex.
The Ivory Coast international, who scored the winner at Portsmouth in midweek, took advantage of some poor defending to break the deadlock after 15 minutes.
A loose header allowed the Ivorian to muscle his way through to be one-on-one with Keiren Westwood in the Coventry goal.
The young goalkeeper did well to force Drogba wide but, with defenders scrambling back to cover, Drogba lifted his angled drive high in to the net.
Drogba had missed an earlier chance but Chelsea were in complete command and keeper Petr Cech did not have to make a worthwhile save in a one sided first half.
Coventry's endeavour was such that Chelsea were never truly comfortable until the second goal came with 15 minutes left on the clock.
However, Chelsea's technical superiority shone throughout and the home side were unable to create any meaningful chances as Chelsea ran out deserved winners.
Ironically, Coventry were enjoying their best spell of the match when Chelsea effectively ended the contest.
With men pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Chelsea took advantage of an attack that broke down to counter quickly.
Alex found himself in oceans of space in the Coventry box and picked his spot past Westwood adroitly when set up by a low cross from Ricardo Quaresma.
The day was given an even more satisfying feel for Chelsea's travelling fans when they were able to welcome back Michael Essien as a second half substitute for his first competitive action since August.
For all his histrionics, Mourinho is essentially great fun. He would stroll into Cobham and reveal his concern for dying swans in Scotland. He would march in after the FA Cup final to declare London safe because his terrier had left town.
What an entertainer. And, as Ronaldo discovered, Mourinho has a heart. Welcome back, Jose. Next time, come back for good.
