Liverpool’s hopes of finishing in the top virtually disappeared yesterday as the Reds drew 1-1 with champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The draw means that Brendan Rodgers team are now six points behind fourth-place Manchester United with an inferior goal difference.
The Reds followed the tradition of giving the Blues a guard of honour prior to kick-off, which will have hurt Steven Gerrard and co.
The game started in feisty manner and the home side took the lead on five minutes with one of the simplest goals you will ever see. Cesc Fabregas corner kick was headed beyond Simon Mignolet by Chelsea’s captain fantastic John Terry.
The goal made the former-England captain the highest ever scoring defender in the history of the Premier League, which means the centre-back has been highly-effective at both ends of the pitch.
Liverpool captain Gerrard was given stick throughout the game, but it was the veteran midfielder who equalised on the stroke of half-time, as he headed home from Jordan Henderson’s free-kick at the far post.
The visitors made a bright start to the second half and Philippe Coutinho fired wide of goal after good play from Raheem Sterling. Chelsea replied with two efforts from Willian, who fired just wide of goal, before seeing an effort blocked by Martin Skrtel.
Gerrard was substituted with ten minutes remaining and was given a standing ovation from both sets of fans, despite earlier ribbing from the home fans.
The Reds had chances to win the game, as Thibaut Courtois saved an effort from a deflected Coutinho effort. Jordan Henderson also fired wide with a volley from 18 yards out. In the end though, the Reds could not find a crucial winner.
Have Liverpool underachieved this season?
