Half-time: Arsenal 0 Chelsea 0

Frank Lampard almost put Chelsea ahead at the Emirates Stadium, where a win would put them level on points with Premier League leaders Liverpool.

Lampard volleyed against the underside of the bar after meeting Eden Hazard’s ball into the box with a crisp volley.

The England midfielder had earlier miscued when Cesar Azpilicueta pulled the ball back from the left after linking up with the lively Hazard.

Boss Jose Mourinho has made it clear that his attacking players must improve the defensive side of their game when the team do not have possession if Chelsea are to sustain a title challenge.

And with Fernando Torres and Willian constantly looking to stop Arsenal building from the back, and with Ramires dropping deep to join midfielders Lampard and John Mikel Obi when needed, they have looked solid so far.

Arsenal finished the half strongly, however, and wanted a penalty when Theo Walcott went down after Willian stepped on his feet, but referee Mike Dean was having none of it.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1:) Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Mikel, Lampard; Willian, Ramiries, Hazard; Torres.
Subs: Schwarzer, Luiz, Cole, Oscar, Mata, Schurrle, Eto’o.

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