Latest: Arsenal 0 Chelsea 0

Chelsea had to withstand a brief period of pressure in the second half at the Emirates Stadium, where a win would put them level on points with Premier League leaders Liverpool.

Frank Lampard almost put them ahead in the first half, volleying against the underside of the bar after meeting Eden Hazard’s ball into the box.

The England midfielder 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 first 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.

There have been no clear-cut chances since the restart, with Chelsea standing firm during a 10-minute spell in which the Gunners had plenty of possession.

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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