Current Premier League Champions Manchester City had to settle for a draw as Chelsea dug deep and showed good resilience to stop their title rivals from reducing the lead at the top to two points.
It was Manchester City who started brightly despite Chelsea enjoying the partisan crowd support as Manuel Pellegrini clearly wanted the three points to reduce Chelsea’s lead at the top, however, it was Mourinho’s men who took the lead.
The Blues had to wait until the 30th minute as a mistake by Vincent Kompany allowed Eden Hazard to square a pass for Oscar to have a shot, but it was easily handled by Joe Hart. City’s response was immediate as they retaliated with a chance of their own. Sergio Aguero’s shot almost kissed Courtois’ post but did not break the deadline. Despite creating limited chances, Loic Remy, who stepped in for the suspended Diego Costa, found the back of the net in the 41st minute after being set up by Eden Hazard.
With the half time approaching, City were facing a tough situation in the second half, but, Aguero’s shot was turned home by David Silva in the 45th minute to make sure that the teams went into the break with the scoreline level. The second half was all Manchester City as the holders probed for an opening to score a goal. Chelsea’s defense stood out well and managed to shutout City’s threat in the second half and ensure that they still have a five-point lead at the top.
Chelsea were defensive, feels Pellegrini
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini revealed in the post-match press conference that he was proud of the way his side played, but was unhappy with a draw, “We played a very good game. One team wanted to play from the beginning. The only chance Chelsea got they scored a beautiful goal. In the second half Chelsea defended very well, but I am very proud about our team a to have the personality to come here and try to win from first minute to end.
a We took the risks and tried to win. I dona t want to talk about what Chelsea tried to do. We wanted to win and have the possession. We have to play 45 points more. Chelsea stay five points in front. Maybe they are happy. I am never happy when we drop points.a
Despite the draw, City fans will be somewhat happy with the result as they managed to come away without a defeat that could have ended the title race.