Brentford were comprehensively beaten 4-0 at Stamford Bridge with two goals in either half by the home side.
Despite fielding an under-strength side, which did happen to include the returning john Terry and Kurt Zouma, Antonio Conte was not about to let the Bees take the back-page headlines.
Below are five things to take away from the contest.
A Case Of What Might Have Been
4-0 may sound comprehensive, but after being out played for the opening 45 Dean Smith clearly raised spirits at half-time.
Brentford had two chances in the first five minutes of the second period and Nico Yennaris had the best chance when one-on-one with Asmir Begovic before Chelsea made the game safe with a third goal.
Josh McEachran Didn’t Enjoy His Return
The Chelsea academy product moved to Brentford after several loan spells that made it clear his future at Stamford Bridge was looking bleak.
He returned on Saturday but failed to show Chelsea that they may have missed a beat by letting him go and he remained relatively ineffective in his attempts to protect Brentford’s defence.
A Possible Farewell For Scott Hogan
The striker is looking set for a move across the capital to West Ham after several years at Griffin Park but received a positive reception from the travelling fans when he made a substitute cameo.
His 14 league goals this term have made him the Bees leading marksman and his absence will certainly be felt should he exit before the window shuts.
The Travelling Faithful Remained Resolute
Brentford took nearly 6,000 fans to Stamford Bridge to signify their dedication to their team.
Despite going two down before the half hour and then seeing Chelsea notch a further two before the game’s end they never stopped singing and occupied the entirety of the away stand until Michael Oliver blew the final whistle.
Three Without A Win
Brentford are now without a win in three, despite performing valiantly in defeat to both Newcastle United a fortnight ago and Chelsea on Saturday afternoon.
They host Aston Villa and Championship leaders Brighton in the next week and will hope to get back to winning ways sooner rather than later.
