ClapThe clash between Chelsea and Arsenal was always going to be feisty with both teams going in search of what they would’ve believed to be a vital three points.
In the end, though, as reported by BBC and The Guardian, neither was able to get over the finish line as they shared the points in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Never say die
There was certainly something of a feeling out process between the two top four contenders in the early stages of the game, but just under half an hour into proceedings, a Shkodran Mustafi mistake saw Tammy Abraham being dragged to the ground by David Luiz who was forced into what many would call a necessary challenge.
A penalty was given and then converted by Jorginho, whereas Luiz, the former Chelsea star, was given his marching orders as he was sent off.
In the second half Arsenal youngster Gabriel Martinelli scored with what could prove to be one of the moments of the season for the club as he ran about 60 yards before slotting in the equaliser.
Cesar Azpilicueta scored what he thought would prove to be the winner with six minutes remaining, only for the returning Hector Bellerin to pop up with a wonderful strike to ensure that Arsenal came away with a deserved point.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta couldn’t hide his excitement.
“I am very pleased with the reaction. To do that against this kind of opponent in this stadium, I really value. The way they have done it, with the spirit they have done it, that’s great.
“When someone makes a mistake you expect your team-mates to stand up and they showed that belief, I was really impressed with that.
Lots to learn
“I wasn’t here a couple of weeks ago but what I am demanding every day they are trying their best to do it. Some are playing in different positions.
“The togetherness and leadership they showed today, this is what I wanted to see.
“It’s very important for the development. We are in the a process and are going in the right direction but I think tonight is a special night for everybody.
Lampard, on the other hand, knew that this was a big case of two points dropped for the Blues.
“Frustrated because you want to win. We got a goal, they went down to 10 men and we have to do better to score another goal. Then we didn’t defend and gifted them two goals. That’s people not doing their jobs which they should know. Moments like that lose you points at this level.
“We could have had three or four goals today. Having shots, crosses and lots of ‘ooh’ moments. We have to be clinical. When gameday comes you have to have the killer instinct. We’ve not got that at the moment. We might be a bit young and a bit of transition about us but we have to have that quality. It’s nothing on the crowd, that’s about us.”
