Everton 0-0 Chelsea Highlights
Misfiring Chelsea again missed the chance to go top of the Premier League table as they had captain John Terry sent off at Goodison Park.
In the 35th minute of a physical encounter which lacked quality, Terry was given a straight red card for a reckless studs-up lunge at Leon Osman.
Chances were scarce as Steven Pienaar bundled in from a yard for Everton late on but was ruled to be offside.
The Blues drop their first away points of the season as Liverpool remain top.
Both sides lacked cutting edge with the hosts, without a recognised striker in their 18-man squad, having to rely on midfielder Tim Cahill to lead the line.
Chelsea, with Nicolas Anelka quiet and Joe Cole still struggling for form, failed to maintain their 100% away record and missed out on setting a new mark for consecutive away victories in the top flight.
But considering they played over half the game with 10 men, they may be happy with a point.
Despite the shadow cast by Terry’s red card, the match was characterised by commitment and hard work from both sets of players – but, also, an acute lack of quality.
LAST SEASON’S CORRESPONDING GAME
17 April 2008 – Ref: Martin Atkinson
Chelsea scorer: Essien 41
Chelsea were seriously hypered in this match… 3 yellow cards and 1 RED card!