Chelsea Vs Burnley Preview

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Chelsea v Burnley

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2009

Stamford Bridge

Kick-Off: 12:45

Chelesa

Chelsea look to make it four wins out of four to start the 2009/10 season, and will be expecting nothing less than three points as they play host to Burnley on Saturday.

Carlo Ancelotti has enjoyed his first few games at the helm for Chelsea as the Londoners have come out with guns blazing in their first three matches of the new campaign.

After a slight scare in the first week against Hull, Chelsea have responded nicely to beat Sunderland and Fulham by two goals each.

Didier Drogba’s return to form has been a major boost for Ancelotti as the Ivorian has already tallied three goals this season.

Yuri Zhirkov has declared his interest in making his debut for Chelsea against Burnley but will likely face a race against time in order to be fit for the contest.

Burnley

Burnley come into the match feeling confident after consecutive Premier League wins over Manchester United and Everton, both of which ended 1-0.

A deflected effort from Wade Elliot that searched its way into the side netting of Tim Howard’s goal proved the difference as Burnley beat a struggling Everton side.

There were, however, nailbiting moments in the second half as Burnley were pinned back in their own half. A missed penalty by Louis Saha was one of a string of missed chances as Everton poured the pressure on late in the match.

Robbie Blake’s fantastic volley a week earlier was enough for Burnley to stun Manchester United at Turf Moor. Despite a late barrage of half chances, Burnely were solid at the back and didn’t give the defending champions any clear cut scoring opportunities.

Andre Bikey and Tyrone Mears have been fantastic additions to Owen Coyle’s defence and they will likely figure in again on Saturday.

Burnley were involved in a lengthy Carling Cup match on Tuesday against Hartlepool which could leave them a bit heavy in their boots. A late brace from Steven Fletcher saved Coyle the embarrassment of crashing out to the League One side.

Richard Eckersley will miss the match through suspension for being sent off against Hartlepool.

Prediction

The most recent Chelsea vs Burnley fixture saw Burnley shock Chelsea in the Carling Cup in November at Stamford Bridge in a match that went to penalties. The then Championship club put in an impressive result against Chelsea which the home side will definitely be looking to avenge.

While Burnley’s recent run of form has been impressive, they will have to be on the absolute top of their game to salvage anything from this tie.

Chelsea’s fine form combined with Burnley’s lack of attacking options should tilt the match heavily in favour of the London club.

Chelsea vs Burnley Prediction: Chelsea 3 - Burnley 0

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