Chelsea vs. Bristol Rovers: Score and Reaction from 2016 EFL Cup

Chelsea made their way through to the next stage of the EFL Cup, defeating Bristol Rovers 3-2 in the second round at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Michy Batshuayi struck twice in the first half as Victor Moses obtained a third, but Rovers battled valiantly and struck back through Peter Hartley and a second-half penalty from Ellis Harrison.

Rovers deserved a draw after a spirited display, but their lack of cohesion in the first half cost them a precious draw on the night.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek was included in Antonio Conte’s side as an attacking midfielder, supporting Batshuayi in the forward positions. Cesc Fabregas made his first start of the season, replacing recent signing N’Golo Kante. Diego Costa dropped to the bench as the Blues coach shuffled the pack.

There were two changes for Rovers from the draw against Southend United in their last outing. Darrell Clarke’s side sit 18th in League One, having taken just four points. However, they did beat Championship side Cardiff City to secure their place in the second round and a mouthwatering trip to west London.

The hosts were quickly out the blocks as they attempted to put the League One outfit to the sword. Fabregas and Loftus-Cheek expertly linked up with Batshuayi to form a deadly combination

Loftus-Cheek smashed a long-range effort off the post as Conte’s men threatened to score, and the Blues finally took the lead shortly before the half-hour mark.

The goal came from the always dangerous Batshuayi, who thumped his effort past goalkeeper Steve Mildenhall from close range.

Chelsea doubled their lead two minutes later as …

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