Chelsea produced a demolition job on Middlesbrough to power their way into the Carabao Cup final.
Down 1-0 from the first leg, Mauricio Pochettino’s side roared their way to Wembley with an emphatic 6-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Cole Palmer, as he has so often this season, starred as he scored twice, while Axel Disasi was another to impress as the young defender got on the scoresheet.
It was a chastening night for Middlesbrough but this was all about Chelsea’s richly assembled side, who, for the first time in a while, clicked from back to front.
Mail Sport’s ADRIAN KAJUMBA was in position at Stamford Bridge to rate Pochettino’s Blues…
Chelsea hit Middlesbrough for six as they booked their spot in next month’s Carabao Cup final
It was a big night for Mauricio Pochettino, who is still seeking a first trophy in English football
CHELSEA (4-2-3-1)
Djordje Petrovic 7
Equal to early effort from Rogers with sharp save down low to his right but had no answer to late effort from Boro forward.
Axel Disasi 8
On right-back duty again but enjoyed his night. His run and cross led to first goal and scored third himself.
Axel Disasi (front) scored and put in an impressive display from right back once again
Thiago Silva 7
Had some tricky moments against the Rogers including when booked but also showed his experience to deal with Boro danger man.
Levi Colwill 7
Took little while to find passing range but a good foil for Silva. Occasionally needed to show recovery qualities to bail Chelsea out.
Ben Chilwell 8
First start since September and set tone with early runs in behind. Unlucky not to get penalty and key to first goal.
Moises Caicedo 7
Marshalled midfield area in front of defence. Quietly effective, kept things simple and often in right place at right time.
Enzo Fernandez was another of the scorers but he is always there to do the dirty work, too
Enzo Fernandez 8
Scored one might have had two. Got through fair amount of defensive work and chipped in with eye-catching attacking contributions.
Raheem Sterling 7.5
Best moment was unselfishness he showed for the goal which set Chelsea on their way. Was a repeated threat.
Cole Palmer 8.5
Roamed around in trademark style and was always looking to open up Boro. Got his reward with two well-taken goals.
Cole Palmer is the jewel in this Chelsea crown and he bagged a brace on a rampant night
The former Manchester City star pulled out his trademark ‘Cold Palmer’ celebration
Mykhailo Mudryk 5
Not his night. Hooked at half-time. Got booked after Chilwell’s penalty appeal and things did not get much better.
Armando Broja 6
In the danger area when first two goals were scored but did not have the telling final touch. Can count himself a little unlucky on that front.
Subs:
Noni Madueke (for Mudryk 46) 7
Alfie Gilchrist (for Chilwell 65) 6
Conor Gallagher (for Broja 65) 6
Carney Chukwuemeka (for Caicedo 72) 6.5
Leo Castledine (for Sterling 85)
Unused subs: Bergstrom, Curd, Badiashile, Washington.
Manager: Mauricio Pochettino 7.5
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