Chelsea's title aspirations fade following draw with Everton
Drogba's late shot was as close as Chelsea came to scoring
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Wednesday, 22, Apr 2009 10:40
Chelsea's slim hopes of catching Manchester United at the top of the Premier League have taken another hit after they drew 0-0 at home to Everton.
Although the Toffees had a day less to recover from their respective FA Cup semi-final encounters David Moyes' side showed they were a match for the Blues.
The best chances fell to the visitors and they were also unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty when Alex brought down Leighton Baines.
Chelsea could have snatched late on but Didier Drogba saw his effort cannon back off the woodwork.
The first chance of an open match fell to Brazilian striker Jo. He has been prolific at home for the Toffees but is yet to find the net away from Goodison Park.
He failed to end that run of form when through one-on-one with Petr Cech who saved well.
Chelsea responded with shots from Drogba and Florent Malouda but neither tested Tim Howard.
Although Chelsea dominated possession and territory it was Jo who had another chance to put Everton in front. But he slipped at the vital moment after being played through by Steven Pienaar.
The Toffees were then unlucky not to get a penalty as Baines tumbled over Alex's outstretched leg but the referee decided there was not enough contact to give the spot kick.
Chelsea improved after the break and Howard was at full stretch to keep out John Terry's fierce drive from 30 yards out.
Frank Lampard then had a shot blocked by Joseph Yobo before Salomon Kalou narrowly missed the target with a header.
Chelsea almost stole all three points when Drogba received the ball inside the box. The Ivorian turned and lashed a shot goalwards but was denied by the crossbar.
The result leaves Blues six points adrift of Manchester United having played a game more than Alex Ferguson's side.