Chelsea charge halted by Hull
Reuters - Tuesday 02 February 2010, 22:23
Premier League leaders Chelsea
could only draw 1-1 at relegation-threatened Hull City on
Tuesday as they squandered the chance to move four points clear
of Manchester United in the title race.
Didier Drogba's free-kick shortly before half-time cancelled
out Hull's opener scored by Steven Mouyokolo but Chelsea could
not force the winner after the break despite late pressure.
Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea have 55 points from 24 games with
champions United on 53. Third-placed Arsenal, who play at
Chelsea at the weekend, are on 49 points.
Hull, one of four sides on 21 points near the foot of the
table, remain in the relegation zone on goal difference.
While Chelsea's form at Stamford Bridge has been immaculate
with just two league points dropped all season, they have been
far less impressive away from home and they were not at their
best again on Tuesday.
Chelsea began well with Frank Lamaprd and Michael Ballack
both forcing Hull keeper Boaz Myhill into early action but they
lost their way as the first half wore on and fell behind to the
kind of set piece that has troubled them all season.
Stephen Hunt swung in a corner and Mouyokolo found himself
unmarked to head past Petr Cech from close range.
The goal stung Chelsea into action and Hull's joy was cut
short three minutes before halftime when Drogba curled in a free
kick for his first goal since returning from African Nations Cup
duty with Ivory Coast.
Anthony Gardner missed a great chance to put Hull back into
the lead while Daniel Sturridge nearly grabbed a vital win for
Chelsea with a late effort saved by Myhill.
Chelsea skipper John Terry, who is mired in controversy
after newspaper allegations about his private life, had a quiet
night although he was subject to abuse by Hull fans.
Terry's future as England captain could be decided this week
by coach Fabio Capello.