Arsenal 1 Chelsea 2: It was our first big test, says Fernando Torres

Fernando Torres heaped praise on Chelsea for overcoming their “first big test” after the Blues eased to victory over Arsenal at The Emirates.

The 28-year-old put Chelsea in front in the 20th minute when Laurent Koscielny’s poor marking allowed the Spain striker to guide his 75th Premier League goal past Vito Mannone.

Arsène Wenger’s side, who were unbeaten heading into the London derby, managed to equalise just before half-time, with Gervinho emphatically firing past Petr Cech after good work by substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

However, Juan Mata’s 53rd minute free-kick managed to beat the Arsenal defence and squirm past Mannone to secure Chelsea’s third league victory at The Emirates since 2006.

“For us to win against the top teams is very important,” Torres told the BBC.

“That was the reason we didn’t finish in the top four last season. This was our first big test and we have got the points.”

Torres’ strike ended a run of four games without a goal and it was his first against Arsenal in the Premier League, taking the Spaniard’s tally to four in all competitions this term.

After a difficult start to his Chelsea career since completing a £50m move from Liverpool in January 2011, Torres was enthusiastic about his and Chelsea’s prospects this season.

“I always aim to improve,” added Torres.

“I had a very difficult start at Chelsea but I am enjoying the present and we are building a big team.

“We can see that we keep the ball better now and we are dangerous between the lines.”

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