Unfamiliar losing feeling for Mourinho

Jose Mourinho found himself in foreign territory as he congratulated the Arsenal players as they descended from the royal box – Arsene Wenger, of course, avoided his great rival – and forced to contemplate an uncomfortable fact; Arsenal had finally managed to beat Chelsea at their own game.

Reluctantly, the Chelsea manager praised the winners’ performance that he, unfairly, characterised as a one-dimensional defensive display while delivering the barb that Wenger’s side had abandoned their philosophy in the pursuit of victory.

Mourinho’s tone was unnecessary. Yes, Arsenal demonstrated the kind of defensive resolve that has been missing from their play since the 2004 Invincibles swept their way to the title, but they had also demonstrated sufficient attacking intent, particularly in the middle of the first half, to leave Wembley as deserving winners.