First, the Belgian put Chelsea ahead in the 47th minute slotting home from the penalty spot. West Ham was punished after Michail Antonio fouled Cesar Azpilicueta.
Apart from his first goal, Hazard persistently attacked West Ham keeping their opponents at the back end and allowed his team to dominate the match. He also looked sharp and creative perhaps a sign of what to expect from him this season.
The match looked headed for a 1-1 tie after James Collins had equalized for West Ham in the 77th minute but a late Diego Costa strike ensured the Blues picked all three points and had a positive start to the season.
Monday’s win was a great start to the season by new Chelsea coach Antonio Conte. Conte who led Italy to the quarter-finals of this year’s Euro Cup was clearly delighted by the win as he joined fans in wild celebrations after the winning goal.
Conte will be glad to have had a positive start considering that the Blues did not begin the season well last year as they slumped to a disappointing tenth place finish which led to the sacking of Jose Mourinho as coach.
Chelsea fans seem to have taken well to their new manager who was enthusiastically hugged after Monday’s win. Overall both teams did not look to be their best after the pre-season and could be in need of some signings before the window closes.