Chelsea’s Home Form: a Gift and a Curse

 

Our previous unbeaten home record is something that had obviously been much talked about and despite the 86 games over a four year period unbeaten being a phenomenal achievement, the question was often asked as to whether it had actually become more of a hindrance than a help.

 

You see, for quite some time it had actually looked as if teams were coming to Stamford Bridge looking for, and getting, a point. As amazing as the home run appeared, Stamford Bridge wasn’t quite the fortress it seemed.

 

Fortunately though, despite our previous two managers happily gloating when it came to our form at home, even during his relatively short time with us so far, Scolari has recognised that our home form is a problem that could ultimately cost us unless it’s addressed.

 

Whilst our one defeat against Liverpool last week isn’t something to panic about in isolation, our home draws against Spurs and United, and the fact that our 15 points away outweigh the eight we’ve managed at home, are enough for Scolari to know something needs to change.

 

Scolari said: "We have 23 points in total so far and we have played for 15 points away from home this season and have won 15. Our problem is Stamford Bridge. The reason for this is the clubs that play at Stamford Bridge play defensively, with eight or nine at the back.

 

"They come here to play for a draw and, if it’s possible, score from a corner, a foul or a counter-attack. Away from home, opposing teams open up and try to play more. Here, we need more quality, to create more, and we need to score the first goal."

 

So, does the Chelsea manager plan to start throwing money around like his predecessors in order to right the perceived wrongs?

 

Judging by recent reports of Scolari being told that with Chelsea looking to start balancing the books a little better, money will no longer be handed out haphazardly, it doesn’t look likely.

 

Does this phase Brazilian? Apparently not as Scolari said: "We don’t need to spend money. If I let one player go, I can bring one in. If it’s possible, I’ll change one or two players in January. Maybe I want a player at another club who’s not playing. Maybe they’ll loan him to us."

 

How times have changed!