Chelsea vs Watford: Antonio Rudiger was to blame for Doucoure's goal, says Pardew
Summer-signing Rudiger started the game for Chelsea, with Cesar Azpilicueta moving into the right wing-back position.
Pedro had given the Blues the lead with a stunning curling effort from the edge of the box.
But Abdoulaye Doucoure drew Watford level just before half-time, beating Thibaut Courtois at his near post with a powerful effort.
On second inspection, Rudiger is seen tangling with Watford’s Christian Kabasele and the pair fall to the floor, obstructing Courtois’ view.
The Chelsea player is at fault here, because he gives him a dig there and then the Watford player drags him down
Alan Pardew on Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger
“Firstly they got back on level terms because they put a little bit of pressure on Chelsea,” Pardew said on Sky Sports.
“This goal comes about by just having numbers in the box.
“They cause a bit of havoc, it’s a long throw. He’s come all the way from the other side of the pitch to take that throw.
“They’ve set it up and you’ll see here, even though Luiz gets a good header, there’s a bit of a kerfuffle on the line.
Ivan Perisic destroys Antonio Rudiger with unbelievable footwork
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Chelsea vs Watford: Antonio Rudiger and Christian Kabasele got in Courtois' way, says Pardew
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“My take is the Chelsea player is at fault here, because he gives him a dig there and then the Watford player drags him down.
“Now, unfortunately for the goalie, they’re right in front of him.
“He can’t get set, he can’t get comfortable and it’s squeezed in on the near post.
“If we just take away the fact of that goal, Watford have played with a confidence and an air about them.”
Chelsea went on to win the game 4-2, with Michy Batshuayi netting a brace from the bench.
