The Digest:
Chelsea wasted a crucial opportunity to gain ground in the Premier League title race, being held to a tepid 0-0 draw by Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. Despite the return of Cole Palmer, the Blues lacked creativity and firepower, extending their winless league run to three matches.
Key Points:
- Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by Bournemouth, missing a chance to close the gap on leaders Arsenal.
- The Blues are now eight points behind Arsenal after the Gunners also lost earlier in the day.
- Cole Palmer made his first start since September but was substituted after an hour, unable to inspire a breakthrough.
- Bournemouth had a goal disallowed for offside by VAR and missed a glaring chance from close range.
- Chelsea's best opportunity came when Alejandro Garnacho hit the post with a second-half header.
- Manager Enzo Maresca made six changes from the midweek defeat to Leeds but saw his side deliver a poor first-half display.
- Defender Trevoh Chalobah was a standout, winning all of his ground duels in a solid defensive performance.
- The result marks Chelsea’s first goalless draw since the opening weekend of the season.
Sources: BBC Sports, Goal.com
