Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Burnley at Turf Moor on Sunday, with Antonio Conte’s side temporarily stretching their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 10 points.
Pedro had given the visitors an early lead after just seven minutes, but a stunning Robbie Brady free-kick drew Burnley level before half-time in what was a thrilling encounter.
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However, despite both sides pushing to find a winning goal, neither could do so and in turn they had to settle for a share of the spoils with Chelsea continuing to lead the way while their opponents move further away from the relegation zone.
As for Conte though, he will be disappointed to see his side drop points, but he will have known prior to kick-off just how difficult it is to take something from Burnley away as they boast a strong home record so far this season.
Despite a troublesome knee problem limiting him, David Luiz produced a decent performance in the heart of the Chelsea defence as he marshalled the backline well, while Thibaut Courtois produced some key saves to keep his side in it.
Eden Hazard was a constant threat while N’Golo Kante was tireless in midfield and Pedro did brilliantly with his goal. However, there were also some disappointing displays, none more so than Nemanja Matic who failed to have an influence on proceedings and was replaced in the second half.
It’s a point gained for Chelsea but they will now wait to see whether or not Manchester City can close the gap on Monday night and emerge as their new nearest rivals.
From Burnley’s perspective, Brady will undoubtedly take the plaudits for that stunning goal, but Michael Keane was a rock in defence and one of the star performers for the home side.
Burnley player ratings: Heaton 6, Lowton 7, Keane 8, Mee 6, Ward 7, Boyd 6, Barton 7, Westwood 6, Brady 7, Gray 7, Barnes 7.
Substitutes: Vokes 6, Arfield 6.
Chelsea player ratings: Courtois 8; Azpilicueta 6, David Luiz 6, Cahill 7; Moses 7, Kante 7, Matic 6, Alonso 6; Pedro 6, Diego Costa 6, Hazard 7.
Substitutes: Fabregas 6, Willian 6, Batshuayi 6.
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