Chelsea Held To Frustrating Goalless Draw Against Everton

Title contenders Chelsea endured a frustrating evening as they were held to a goalless draw by Everton, providing a significant boost to Premier League leaders Liverpool.

Arne Slot's Liverpool are assured of retaining top spot at Christmas, regardless of their result against Tottenham later on Sunday kick-off 1630 GMT, after Enzo Marescas Chelsea side failed to breach Evertons resilient defense.

The match was played under challenging weather conditions, with swirling wind and rain, yet Chelsea created the better chances. Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a key save to deny Nicolas Jackson after a slick team move, while Jackson later hit the post with a close-range header.

For Everton, Orel Mangala forced a full-stretch save from Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez with a low shot from outside the box in their best chance of the first half.

Early in the second half, Jack Harrison squandered a golden opportunity to give Everton the lead, but Sanchez reacted well to block his tame effort.