“The team played a good game with great intensity and good spirit”, Conte told Sky Sports.
Advertisement
With West Ham offering next to no attacking threat, Chelsea continued to attack, Willian working Adrian with a crisp shot and John Terry heading over.
Chelsea dominated for large parts of the game and the scoreline was flattering for the Hammers in the end.
But the 27-year-old had been fortunate to still be on the pitch when, having already been booked for remonstrating with the referee, he escaped a second booking when he caught Hammers keeper Adrian high up on the shin with a late challenge.
Following a goalless first half, Belgian striker Eden Hazard put the hosts ahead with a clinical spot kick early in the second half before James Collins restored parity in the 77th minute, Sport24 reported. But it was late, very late.
Of the 11 players that started for Chelsea, 10 of them were also in the starting XI for the opening game of the 2015/16 season, with N’Golo Kante the only new addition.
“It’s important to find the right spirit and intensity, we know that we can improve and we must improve a lot, but I am pleased for the team”.
“The victory was deserved for me”.
Hazard struggled for form and fitness as Chelsea were knocked out of all cup competitions and ended up 10th in the Premier League table with their title defence in tatters.
“I have to say thanks to the Chelsea fans because the welcome was fantastic”, said the former Juventus and Italy coach.
“To see the Italian flag in the stand I had a bit of emotion, especially because my wife and daughter were here”.
The bearded Costa collected a header from new signing Michy Batshuayi late in the match on Monday and thumped it low beyond West Ham goalkeeper Adrian’s outstretched right hand to claim the points.
Advertisement
“I hope with work, with my players, we will pay (back) this welcome”. But you never know.
