Luton finished 2023 with a narrow defeat against Chelsea at Kenilworth Road on Saturday.
The Hatters had fallen 3-0 down with 69 minutes gone, Cole Palmer (2) and Noni Madueke on target for the visitors, only to hit back with late goals from Ross Barkley and Elijah Adebayo. Rob Edwards’ side couldn’t quite find an equaliser though and to find out how the home players rated on the afternoon, see below.
5. Amari'i Bell: 7
Centre half found Madueke a tough proposition at times in the first half, as he wasn't able to stop the Chelsea forward when the visitors broke into the area, afforded too much time to size up a shooting opportunity and beat Kaminski. Managed to prevent a repeat occurrence though and was confident to take the ball under pressure and advance forward, adding another string to the Hatters' attacking options. Photo: Liam Smith
6. Alfie Doughty: 7.5
Back on the left this time, but found it more difficult than at Bramall Lane in the first period as Chelsea were wise to his threat, his set-pieces not quite having their usual potency. Did come into it far more after the break though, picking out Adebayo to score, but was adjudged narrowly offside. Showed just how dangerous he is though, winning a corner with which he picked out Barkley to score for his fifth assist of the season. Back post header was parried for Adebayo to make it 3-2 as well as time just ran out for the Hatters. Photo: Liam Smith
7. Ross Barkley (STAR MAN): 9
Against his former side the midfielder once more gave another display that had the home crowd purring, particularly one nutmegged pass through the legs of Gallagher. Got Town ticking as he hardly gave the ball away all afternoon, while he also unleashed five shots in total. Went close from a free kick that he sent narrowly over, before showing his aerial ability to nod home Doughty's corner to begin a Luton comeback that ultimately just fell short. Wonderful late backheel inside the area was something else too. Photo: Liam Smith
8. Albert Sambi Lokonga: 7
Continues to add a different dimension to the Town midfield alongside Barkley as it gives the Hatters two players who are supremely comfortable on the ball, both always happy to receive it under pressure. Delivered some more of his now trademark raking passes to pick out Doughty, but couldn't quite influence things as he has done, as maybe a third game in seven days after returning from a lengthy injury just catching up with him. Still had energy to make another terrific block though. Photo: Liam Smith