Anelka’s class shows as Blues end Preston dreams

CARLO ANCELOTTI did not show at Chelsea’s post-match press conference, claiming the walk from one end of Preston’s ground to the other was too long a trek.

Fortunately for the Chelsea manager, his players did make an appearance at Deepdale and, as a result, are much closer to Wembley and a third FA Cup final triumph in four seasons.

On a misty Lancashire lunchtime and facing an opposing manager called Ferguson, the cup holders had every right to feel apprehensive, particularly after surrendering their 12-week reign at the top of the Premier League to Arsenal three days before the tie.