Chelsea provide ideal parting gift for Hiddink

31 May,2009 06:47 AM IST |   |  AFP

Chelsea gave Guus Hiddink the perfect farewell present as Frank Lampard's goal clinched a 2-1 win over Everton in Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley


Chelsea gave Guus Hiddink the perfect farewell present as Frank Lampard's goal clinched a 2-1 win over Everton in Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley.

Blues' interim boss Hiddink resumes his role as Russia coach on a full-time basis in June but he will always be fondly remembered at Stamford Bridge after leading Chelsea to their first trophy for two years.

Winner takes all: Chelsea's Frank Lampard celebrates after scoring the winner against Everton during the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. Chelsea won 2-1. pic/AP

Everton had made the perfect start when Louis Saha struck after just 25 seconds to claim the fastest goal in FA Cup final history.


But Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba headed Chelsea level midway through the first half before Lampard's long-range effort sealed his club's fifth FA Cup success and ensured Hiddink would leave on a high.

For Drogba it meant a welcome high after having been lambasted following his outburst when Chelsea were knocked out of the Champions League by Barcelona.

"I am really delighted," gasped Drogba.

"It took a lot of effort. We needed to win a trophy this season. We just had to believe in our expectations. Guus Hiddink has transformed us."
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Chelsea Guus Hiddink Frank Lampard goal 2-1 win FA Cup Final Wembley