Goals from Ramires and Willian inside the last 15 minutes rescued the Blues a 2-2 draw with Newcastle at St James’ Park earlier this morning.
With the early stages contested mostly in the middle of the pitch, there was shy forward movement but little in the way of clear-cut chances, as both teams kept numbers behind the ball in-case of any counter-attacking danger. Having the best of the momentum, it was just before the break where the Geordies took what was a deserved lead, when a sharp cross from Vumon Anita was superbly controlled and hit on the half-volley by Ayoze Perez past a stranded Asmir Begovic.
Jose Mourinho was clearly unhappy with the scoreline and while his team came out with more intent following the break, a stoic Newcastle stifled any space for players such as Eden Hazard or Oscar to provide dangerous service. Largely shut-out of the key areas, another defensive lapse would leave Georginio Wijaldum free inside the box for a simple header to double the advantage on the hour mark. Trying anything to get back into the game, a stunning goal from substitute Ramires reduced the deficit with just over 10 minutes left and finally providing the spark the Londoners needed.
Heartbreakingly for what was a brilliant Geordie outfit, Willian’s long-distance free-kick in the late stages sailed over the heads of all targets inside the box and hit the back of the net, salvaging Chelsea a desperately needed point.
Click NEXT for more major talking points
