Chelsea had been compelled to accept a 0–0 draw away at Bournemouth in a quiet Premier League match that produced few clear possibilities. The sport was overshadowed by an damage to striker Liam Delap, who appeared to dislocate his shoulder after a tussle with Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi whereas defending a nook. Delap was changed by teenager Marc Guiu, and Senesi later went off injured as nicely.
Each groups struggled in assault, even with Cole Palmer returning to Chelsea’s beginning line-up for the primary time since September. Palmer, who has been recovering from accidents, performed 58 minutes earlier than being substituted.
Bournemouth thought that they had taken an early lead when Antoine Semenyo scored from shut vary, however the objective was dominated out for offside within the build-up. The house facet seemed sharper within the first half, with Semenyo inflicting issues and testing the Chelsea goalkeeper with a long-range shot.
Chelsea additionally had a couple of moments earlier than the break. Marcus Tavernier and Alex Jimenez each went shut, and Marc Cucurella headed simply over the bar. Delap had an effort blocked earlier than he was compelled off along with his damage.
After half-time, Chelsea loved extra possession and got here closest when Alejandro Garnacho headed in opposition to the submit. Most of their photographs, nonetheless, got here from distance and didn’t hassle the Bournemouth defence.
Each managers made attacking adjustments searching for a winner, however neither facet discovered a breakthrough. Bournemouth’s finest probability of the second half got here from one other Semenyo run and shot, which was saved nicely by Robert Sanchez.
In the long run, Bournemouth held agency and earned some extent, though their winless run now stretches to 6 video games. Chelsea, in the meantime, are and not using a win in three league matches, placing a pause on any hopes of pushing into the title race.
