Watford paraded new acquisitions Younes Kaboul and club-record signing Roberto Pereyra before kick-off, and the Hornets had the first decent chance of the game as Jose Holebas was played in by Miguel Britos and struck a low shot that was well saved by Thibaut Courtois.
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Chelsea manager Antonio Conte praised the impact of his substitutes in their late 2-1 win at Watford.
Antonio Conte pointed to the impact of Michy Batshuayi and Cesc Fabregas as the duo helped inspire Chelsea to a comeback win over Watford.
It appeared that the game was going to end on level terms but with three minutes remaining, substitute Cesc Fabregas sent a ball over the top for Costa and the Spanish global did the rest as he fired past Gomes for his second winning goal in the space of five days.
Conte is enjoying a flawless start to life at Stamford Bridge and praised the togetherness of his squad after turning to his bench for match-winning inspiration.
Fiery striker Diego Costa was lucky to escape a red card for his crude challenge on West Ham goalkeeper Adrian on Monday night.
Mazzari and Conte will go head-to-head in the Premier League on Saturday, but the former attempted to play down the rivalry.
“We try to win all the games like he wants, he’s a good manager, he believes in his team and we try to give everything for him”.
“With the defenders we have we have a few players but it’s important to understand that I don’t just buy to buy – they need to improve my team”. Watford are a good team but we won and we are happy.
“The start (of the season) is important to change the situation compared to last season”. “It won’t be easy but I’m pleased it happened”. Watford were impressive in their first match under the rather eccentric Walter Mazzarri, earning a 1-1 draw with Southampton away from home.
And the Italian admits he will struggle to sleep after blaming his own side for gifting Chelsea their goals.
Asked if he will shake Mazzarri’s hand ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash, Conte said: “Yeah”.
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“I’m pleased to see the reaction from my players”. When you play so well and don’t manage to get any points, it leaves you unhappy.
