Chelsea in Carabao Cup semi final set back

By Peter Ochieng

English Premier League (EPL) side Chelsea sunk to a new low on Tuesday night, going down 1-0 against Championship side Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup first leg semi final clash.

Mauricio Pochettino's side was frustrated going forward from the first minute, with a determined 'Boro' side leaving nothing to chance at the Riverside stadium.

'Boro' is coached by former Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick.

The only goal of the match was scored in the first half, when home team's Isaiah Jones held off the out-of-position Levi Colwill to cut back for Hayden Hackney, who swept home with composure.

Cole Palmer squandered three huge chances to cap off Chelsea's frustrating night.

Luckily for the Blues, the second leg semi final clash is coming up at Stamford Bridge in two week's time.

After the game, Chelsea's Brazillian defender Thiago Silva appeared to be involved in an altercation with Blues fans.

Manager Pochettino said he did not see the incident, but stated that fans have every right to get frustrated.

"I didn’t see. I cannot say anything about that. We understand why our fans would be disappointed by that, but there’s still 90 minutes to play."

Michael Carrick praised the collective effort of his Boro side, after getting the better of Chelsea.

Liverpool host Fulham in the first leg, second semi final match up tonight.