HOME FORM DERAILS CHELSEA TITLE HOPES

Chelsea have not won the Premier League title since the Antonio Conte era in 2016 and they might have to wait until 2023 at least if they don’t get their acts together at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have one of the best away records in the Premier League this season, but it’s their home form that has threatened to derail their title challenge even before the halfway stage of the season.

West London giants Chelsea led the Premier League for the better part of two months before they lost the summit to defending champions Manchester City earlier this month thanks to the 3-2 comeback loss at fellow London team West Ham United. The Blues lost to a very good team on their own patch though they would be disappointed that they didn’t manage to hold on to the lead twice during the game only to then lose it in the final minutes, but in truth, it is their home form that ensured that they lost their place at the top of the table to Manchester City, while also losing second place to Liverpool. Chelsea have had to settle for third place since losing to the Hammers this month. It must be pointed out that Chelsea drew their last two home games before the West Ham United and that’s where the problem lies.

Chelsea needed to keep the pace up with leaders Manchester City after their impressive 7-0 mauling of injury-hit Leeds United by beating a clearly under-strength Everton team. In the end, they could not beat the Toffees after  young defender Jarrod Branthwaite cancelled out the goal from Chelsea playmaker Mason Mount as the two teams settled for a share of the spoils.

The 1-1 draw with visitors Everton makes it three draws in four home games for Chelsea who are now four points adrift of leaders Manchester City on the Premier League log.