Champions Chelsea held to draw by Reds

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Chelsea 1 Liverpool 1

Steven Gerrard’s equaliser meant champions Chelsea had to settle for a draw at Stamford Bridge.

The hosts made the perfect start, with skipper John Terry putting them ahead after only five minutes, but Gerrard levelled just before half-time.

Liverpool stalwart Gerrard was, as usual, barracked by the Chelsea fans.

But the former England captain, who is leaving Anfield at the end of the season, was then applauded off the pitch by them in a touching show of respect as he was substituted late on.

With the title already secured, Blues boss Jose Mourinho decided the time was right to blood Ruben Loftus-Cheek, handing him his full debut.

The 19-year-old produced a tidy display in midfield – he did not give the ball away once – and was given a rousing ovation as he was substituted on the hour mark.

But there was nothing tidy about the defending which led to the two first-half goals.

Terry was able to head home Cesc Fabregas’ right-wing corner and Gerrard nodded Jordan Henderson’s free-kick in at the far post.

Gerrard’s goal came shortly after Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma had limped off after suffering what appeared to be a knee injury.

Buoyed by their equaliser, Liverpool started the second half strongly and almost went ahead when Philippe Coutinho fired into the side netting after Raheem Sterling had beaten Filipe Luis on the edge of the penalty area.

At the other end, Willian sent a shot wide of the target and Fabregas had a tame effort saved by keeper Simon Mignolet.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Ivanovic, Zouma (Cahill 35), Terry, Filipe Luis; Mikel, Loftus-Cheek (Matic 60); Willian, Fabregas, Hazard: Remy (Cuadrado) 83).
Subs not used: Beeney, Ake, Drogba, Azpilicueta.

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