Chelsea Fans Take to Twitter to Offer Contrasting Views on Strikers Àlvaro Morata & Olivier Giroud

Chelsea fans took to Twitter after their 2-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday evening, offering contrasting views on the performances of their two leading strikers: Álvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud.

Morata incurred the wrath of a number of Blues fans after his late cameo appearance for Antonio Conte's side - as he picked up a booking following a heated altercation with Palace defender James Tomkins. The Spaniard then risked further retribution for sarcastically applauding the referee, before slapping the flag out of a linesman's hand later in the game.

Perhaps understandably, the Chelsea fans were less than impressed with the actions of their £58m record signing.

Meanwhile, January signing Olivier Giroud was roundly praised for his performance against the south Londoners - with the Frenchman's impressive link-up play with the Chelsea midfielders proving crucial in the Blues' comfortable victory. 

Blues fans were full of praise for the ex-Arsenal man, saluting the powerful striker on Twitter in great numbers.

Despite the close scoreline, Chelsea were dominant for the majority of their win over their London rivals, with a goal from Willian and an own-goal from Palace defender Martin Kelly securing the win. 

The Eagles hit back with a stoppage time goal from former Blues man Patrick van Aanholt, but were unable to draw level as Chelsea held on for a vital three points.

Meanwhile, Blues boss Conte was full of praise for his side after the win, as they prepare for next week's Champions League second-leg tie against Barcelona at the Camp Nou. With the game delicately poised at 1-1, Chelsea need to score due to the away goals rule - but a 1-0 victory would be enough to see the Premier League champions through to the quarter-finals.