Premier League: Arsenal, Chelsea Settle For Draw As Man City Reduce Gap
Ten-man Arsenal came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against London rivals, Chelsea, in a Premier League encounter on Tuesday at Stamford Bridge.
Jorgingho opened scoring for Chelsea from the penalty spot in the 28th minute after former Blues defender, David Luiz, was sent off for shoving Tammy Abraham in the penalty area.
The Gunners’ 18-year-old striker, Gabriel Martinelli, scored a brilliant equaliser after a rare slip by Chelsea midfielder, N’Golo Kante.
Chelsea looked like they had secured a first top-flight double over their London neighbours in four years when captain Cezar Azpilicueta restored their lead in the 84th minute.
But Arsenal showed a determination that has been missing and, with just their second shot of the game, defender Hector Bellerin rifled in an equaliser three minutes later to seal a fourth successive away league draw.
Chelsea remain fourth on the table while Arsenal retain their 10th position.
Elsewhere, Manchester City reduced their deficit against table toppers, Liverpool, to 13 points after a hard-fought 1-0 0 win against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
The Blades had looked on course to claim a hugely credible draw against the reigning Premier League champions after Dean Henderson saved a Gabriel Jesus penalty in the first half and made a string of excellent saves.
But Sergio Aguero came off the bench and scored the decisive goal in the 73rd minute, tapping in a cross from Kevin de Bruyne towards the end of the second half.
It was the Argentine striker’s sixth goal in his last three games.
The game also witnessed the return of influential City defender, Aymeric Laporte, after five months out with injury. The French defender played for 78 minutes before he was substituted.
Victory for Manchester City means they strengthen their place in second. They have 51 points – 13 behind leaders Liverpool but six ahead of Leicester, who play West Ham on Wednesday.
The result was a first clean sheet since City hosted Sheffield United at the Etihad at the end of December
Sheffield United, meanwhile, remain seventh on 33 points.