Chelsea pick up first trophy under Ranieri
Sunday, 27 July 2003 17:11New look Chelsea have picked up their first silverware of the year winning the inaugural F.A Premiership Asia Cup after penalties. The final went into a penalty shootout after an exciting, but goalless 90 minutes. With Chelsea leading 5-4, Newcastle midfielder Jermain Jenas missed the crucial spot-kick. The England midfielder tried to chip Carlo Cudicini, but his effort floated high over the crossbar.
Sir Bobby Robson had introduced his big guns at the interval but neither Kieron Dyer nor Craig Bellamy could make the most of their chances when sent through after superb vision from Hugo Viana.
Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri introduced Damien Duff with 10 minutes remaining but despite the heightened expectation of the crowd each time he got hold of possession, the Irishman could not forge the breakthrough and the match went to penalties.
Filed by Stephen Cummins
