Chelsea, backed by the billions of owner Roman Abramovich and the riches garnered from successive Champions League campaigns, maintained the composure to come from a goal down to beat English Premier League rivals Everton 2-1 and win the 2009 FA Cup.
The victory ensured Chelsea's first silverware in two years, but they got off to a dreadful start. A poor clearance allowed Everton's Louis Saha to rifle the ball home after just 25 seconds – a record for an opening goal in an FA Cup Final.
Despite temperatures on the Wembley pitch exceeding a stamina sapping 100 degrees Fahrenheit, Chelsea kept their cool as they eased their way back into the game.
Chelsea on Top
Having suffered a truly desperate start, Chelsea maintained their composure and enjoyed the lion's share of play. The west Londoner's patience finally paid off when midway through the first half they grabbed an equaliser. Florent Malouda swung in the sweetest of crosses to Didier Drogba, barely troubled by the Everton defence, who rose to head the ball into the back of the net.
Ten minutes later Chelsea had the opportunity to nudge ahead, but Malouda had his effort blocked. Just before the half time whistle Chelsea had another chance, but Ashley Cole blazed the ball high and wide.
Everton's attacking opportunities were rare, but midway though the second period Tim Cahill was able to take advantage of a slip by Chelsea skipper John Terry, but the Australian's shot was easily fielded by goalkeeper Petr Cech.
Winning Goal and Controversy
Chelsea's domination finally paid off as they grabbed their second goal. Michael Ballack fed the ball to Nicholas Anelka who found Frank Lampard who lashed the ball past Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard from a full 20 yards out.
Chelsea should have been awarded a third goal in a controversy which is sure to revive the argument on the use of technology in football. Malouda delivered a tremendous strike from over 30 yards which smashed into the underside of the bar. The ricochet dropped down, seemingly on to the line before Howard was able to safely gather. But TV recordings indicated the ball had crossed the line. The ball was cleared and played continued so quickly that there was no time for protest.
Ideal Farewell for Hiddink
Winning the FA Cup gave temporary Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink a well deserved send off as he returns to spearhead the Russian national side's FIFA World Cup qualification aspirations..
Hiddink took over at Stamford Bridge following the dismissal of Luiz Felipe Scolari in February. Hiddink had let it be known his time at Chelsea would only be temporary. But in his four months there he had taken the Londoners to within minutes of a UEFA Champions League Final and now helped replenish the club's trophy cabinet with the FA Cup.
