we didnt al together play well and certainly didnt deserve to win.but neither did we deserve to lose.its all about football and that is the beauty of the game.am glad manu is behind us

kayode ogundun, kano, Nigeria

First let me say that I'm both a Chelsea and a Martin Samuel fan. Then let me say that in this instance, I think Martin is a little guilty of simplifying the truth to make his story more compelling.
I refer specifically to his negative comments regarding Alex and Belletti. His match review suggests both had a torrid 90-minutes. 'Neither Alex nor Belletti impressed on their debuts.'
I must point out that this is not entirely the case - watching the first half live on Sky, I was impressed by both Alex's solidity, he dealt with Carew pretty well - coming out on top in most of their one-to-one situations - and was a threat at corners (and Chelsea had lots in the first half). Similarly, Belletti did well up against Moore in this half - and also pushed forward, putting in a couple of good crosses and winning some of those numerous corners.
Just to reinforce my case - checking the Sky commentary, even Andy Grey agreed with my analysis.
So come on Martin - a little more balance please.

Fraser Southey, London,

Mr Samuel was obviously watching a different match from me. Belletti and Alex both played well, especially Belletti, as he has often done when I have watched him play for Barcelona. And Shaun Wright Phillips was a real hand full. Much rather him than the pedestrian Beckham for England. Luke Young was good, too. I hope they both start for England. As for Carew, well he played a bit better than usual but was hardly a real threat. Tell me when and what chances he created , or converted. I am not a Chelsea fan - I am a gooner.

fred, st michel deuzet, france

Villa refused to concede one inch of the pitch to Chelsea and displayed the spirit for which Martin O'Neil's teams are renowned. Every player knew their role with forwards coming back to defend as required. In midfield Reo Coker and Barry were outstanding with Martin Laursen deservedly the man of the match.

What was disappointing was the unsporting manner of some of Chelsea's play. As England captain John Terry seems to believe he has the right to referee the game as well as play. His attitude incensed the Villa Park crowd earning him verbal sanction throughout the game. I suggest he concentrates on his play, he looked a very average player. In addition Drogba on two ocassions fouled Laursen and got away without sanction from the referee whereas any hint of a tackle on him saw him tumble to the ground in dramatic fashion.

Perhaps it was these features of Chelsea's play which saw Abramovich depart in haste leaving Randy Lerner to savour a well earned victory.

John Wgelan, Birmingham, Uk

Jose has to learn to talk not only lesser but also sensible. Like what Fergie says, he's got into a lot of trouble. Learn to admit mistakes, admit that you're not good enough or for the matter, your oppenents are better. He should keep his opinion to himself except his own team. I think the Blues fans are getting tired of him and that's really A SHAME!

Gregory, Singapore, Singapore

moho has lost the plot selling great players and buying saloons. my bet was that seven would take over, but im told he"s in line for an england recall with gaza.

michael joseph heavey, cahersiveen/adams town, madness

Laursen had a fantastic game, were you watching the same game as the rest of us.

maddog, Tamworth,

Did this reporter watch the match?????? Martin Laursen was outstanding and even by the Times' stingy player ratings he deserved an 8 or 9. He got the same rating as John Terry but was by far the better performer and help his team earn a cleansheet and 3 deserved points. To the reporter, try watching the match

Calvin , Southend,

Was martin samuel at this match???how he can rate Laursen as Villa's worst player is unbelievable

andy newman, derby,

Abramovich should do Chelsea and English football a favour and sack Mourinho.

See him off with a pat on the back for the good work done.

If not, he runs the risk of being a spectator to many more mediocre performences. Given the quality of the players, that is unacceptable.

He should then hire one of the most successful managers of our time: Fabio Capello. His track record is a guarantee for results, quality of play and professionalism.

Lawrence, London,

Chelsea lose Lampard or Terry with injury and they are nothing. Liverpool lose Carra and Gerrard and we still look as good as ever. Jamie and Steven put the icing on the cake!

Tony Bleasdale, Liverpool,

Villa played some good football but the new boys for the Blues
didnt quite cut the mustard and if you;re going to win the league you cant afford the luxury nof bedding players in.Still,care free.........

george baldwin, battersea, right state

To award the same mark to Juliano Belletti and Jon Obi Mikel is ridiculous. belletti looked comfortable and behaved with the essence of a honed premiership full back. Mikel's mark of five flatters him.

DG, York,

Villa looked brilliant on sunday, the main difference about us this season to as many seasons back as can remember is that even after 42 mins of pure pressure we didn't crack held our ground and even scored on a lovely counter and i don't care who you are and what stage the games at catching Chelsea on the break is hard. With Martin O'neil, Villa Park the signings the new facilitys the new chairman and the fan base we are a club in the up so all you so called big guns watch out the Villans are back in town.

Matthew Cobb, croydon, england

chelsea, come on..... ask more $$$$ from papa.....two players for each position, not enough....make it 3 or 4.......hahahaha

jeffery, brunei,

chelsea r the best

jack, tolox, malaga

I as a Chelsea fan think of it as only 1 point lost not 3, as we never win and always draw a Villa Park! We will still win the title when it all clicks together!

Russell, Fleet,