John Terry Make Chealsea Win

By Alex Dimond

30 Jan 2010 20:12:00

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EPL: John Terry, Burnley v Chelsea (Getty Images)

Teams

• Chelsea

Players

• John Terry

You couldn't script it, could you? John Terry will wake up on Sunday to see his name plastered across the front pages of the newspapers, with further revelations set to come out about the various 'transgressions' (as Tiger Woods might call them) in his private life. But at least the 29-year-old will be able to console himself by turning to the back pages, where his name will also adorn the headlines — this time for all the right reasons. It speaks volumes for his character — on the pitch, at least — that Terry was able to shut out the expected abuse he received at Turf Moor ("Same old Terry, always cheating" being the favourite) to put in the sort of disciplined defensive performance that his side have always relied on him for. His late goal — his first away from home for the club in two years – earned his side a crucial three points against a determined Burnley side, points that give his side a crucial four-point advantage over their two nearest rivals, Arsenal and Manchester United, as they prepare to face off against each other on Sunday.
The subdued reaction to his goal was about the only indication of how much current events are already beginning to weigh on Terry personally, although his team-mates showed their solidarity with their beleaguered captain as they all came over to offer their congratulations.

The 2-1 win was just about deserved for Chelsea, as Burnley once again proved what a tough team they are to visit. Nicolas Anelka's opening goal, after good work from Florent Malouda and Joe Cole, looked like sending Chelsea on their way but the team had to show good character to restore their advantage after Alex had contrived to hand Steven Fletcher an easy opportunity to equalise.

The final whistle signaled the completion of a perfect January for the Blues — five wins from five in a month where the absence of the side's African contigent (the club could have played Didier Drogba at Turf Moor, but opted not to) was supposed to derail their title bid.

Instead, they have re-asserted their credentials.

"It's a testament to the squad and the lads how we've done while they've been away," Frank Lampard said after the game.

"It's a very important stage in the season, and we're in good form. Today we had to show a little bit of grit, after they pulled level, and we did that."

While being careful not to endorse Terry's off-field activities, before and after the game both Carlo Ancelotti and his assistant Ray Wilkins were keen to re-affirm that the whole squad still have faith in their captain.

"He's a fantastic player, every game he plays very well and also tonight he played an important part for us," Ancelotti said.

"That is his private life, this is about work and we don't have to say anything. He is very professional, a fantastic captain. All of Chelsea support him and his family."

The coming days, even weeks, are not going to be pleasant for the Chelsea No. 26, but he will take some comfort from Saturday's result. At a ground where both Arsenal and Manchester United failed to win, this had the feel of a defining game in the title race.

The England captain (although that might not be for too much longer) is sure to face more tough times ahead.

But at least for now his team-mates, manager and the club's fans can be assured of something they probably already knew; that no matter how bad things get off the pitch, it won't affect Terry where it matters to them most — on it.

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