31 May 2009

Chelsea win FA Cup final

5:32 am on 31 May 2009

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

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.

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.

It was also a memorable day for Chelsea defender Ashley Cole, who became the first player for more than 100 years to earn five FA Cup winners' medals.