Essien stunner snatches late draw for Chelsea

A superb 30-metre swerving drive by Michael Essien four minutes from time snatched Chelsea a 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

A superb 30-metre swerving drive by Michael Essien four minutes from time snatched Chelsea a 1-1 draw with Arsenal and spared the champions their first home defeat for more than two years on Sunday.

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Chelsea had struggled to impose themselves on their London rivals and fell behind to a shot by Mathieu Flamini in the 78th minute.

Chelsea, who last lost at home in the league in February 2004 - against Arsenal - roared back and earned their point with a thunderous drive by Ghana midfielder Essien.

They also hit the bar from point-blank range in injury time, with Frank Lampard also hitting a post at the death.

The result leaves Chelsea eight points behind Manchester United, who beat Manchester City 3-1 on Saturday, although the champions do have a game in hand.