Though his aerial ability was one of the best in his era, Hateley's technical ability was more lacking – Docherty once commented that Hateley's passes ought to be labelled "to whom it may concern" – and he struggled at the club. He scored six league goals during the season, and the highlight of his time at Chelsea came in the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United when he headed in the winning goal at Villa Park.
Though his aerial skills were among the best in his time, Hateley's technical abilities fell short – Docherty once remarked that Hateley's passes should be labeled "to whom it may concern" – and he faced difficulties at the club. He scored six league goals during the season, and the peak of his tenure with Chelsea came in the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United when he headed in the winning goal at Villa Park.