With the Premier League title already sewn up, Antonio Conte decided to give a number of his regulars a break on Monday night, making nine changes ahead of their home clash with Watford.
Despite the celebratory mood around Stamford Bridge and the usual guard of honour from the Watford players, the game was anything but an anti-climax, with seven goals scored on an unpredictable night in west London.
Captain John Terry, celebrated his first start since September by netting the Blues’ first goal, their 100th of the season in all competitions.
However, less than a minute later, the Chelsea captain’s error in his own box allowed Etienne Capoue to net a quickfire equaliser.
Cezar Azpilicueta, playing as a right wing-back, put the hosts back in front before the break, courtesy of a fine finish.
In the second-half, Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi made it 3-1 to the Blues who looked set to cruise to a comfortable win.
However, once again Watford hit back quickly, with Daryl Janmaat slaloming through the Chelsea backline before firing past Asmir Begovic.
Then, on 74 minutes, sub Stefano Okaka levelled the scores after some poor defending from the hosts.
The game looked to be heading for a draw when sub Cesc Fabregas, who has enjoyed a superb second half of the season, drilled home after being set up by Willian.
The game, which had threatened to boil over more than once, would end in controversy for the Hornets, with Sebastian Prodl sent off for a second yellow, as Chelsea secured yet another win.
Under Conte, the Blues have enjoyed a joint-record 29 wins in the top-flight this season and have an FA Cup final clash to look forward in just under two week’s time.
As for Walter Mazzarri and Watford, they find themselves in 16th spot, with question marks hanging over the future of their own Italian boss.