Another disappointment for the London Blues – sturdy Brighton came to London, saw the indifferent energy of the Champions League holders and decided to go for it. A late goal from Danny Welbeck brought a point to the visitors to break Chelsea fans’ hearts – final score 1-1.It could have easily been a defeat for the home team. Chelsea haven’t lost against Brighton & Hove Albion since their first meeting in January 1993, but while that record continues, they will be disappointed as the goal-each-draw sees the Blues slip more behind Manchester City.If they win against Brentford, City will win the Premier LeagueFrom the very start, energy was intense. Both sides looked to show an attacking threat without managing to work with either goalkeeper too much in the early stages.First palpable chance came for the skipper of the hosts. Robert Sánchez was fortunate after flapping at a cross in the 17th minute, with César Azpilicueta’s shot being deflected onto the post.Together with wasting points, bad news pile up for Thomas Tuchel as he received another blow – Reece James was forced off through injury before the half-hour mark.Right after the injury of one of the best Chelsea players this season, Romelu Lukaku turned frowns to smiles with a great header. His second goal in two matches since his return to action against Aston Villa in the previous round.Brighton responded with dignity and took over the match. Adam Lallana forced a save from Édouard Mendy, while the product of Chelsea’s academy Tariq Lamptey saw his attempt sail marginally over the crossbar. Also, Alexis Mac Allister’s effort from range was held shortly before the half-time break.Stamford Bridge injury room got another patient with Andreas Christensen who made it until the half-time whistle but could not keep on going after.Guests kept on coming – Jakub Moder’s flick kissed the crossbar on its way over before Mendy’s clearance was blocked by Neal Maupay.Despite Brighton’s pressure, Chelsea could have brought the match to a close in the 56th minute but Callum Hudson-Odoi’s lack of courage resulted in a massive opportunity going to waste.Seconds after, Chelsea were almost punished as Maupay’s shot flashed agonisingly past the post. Mac Allister, Maupey and Lallana tried some more but Mendy had quite a performance. And some luck, to be frank.The hosts slowly regained control and had chances via Mason Mount, Lukaku and N’Golo Kanté. However, the south coast crew did not give up – in injury time, Welbeck rose to head in Marc Cucurella’s cross, as Brighton salvaged a point. It was the fourth time this season that they did so after the 84th minute.Chelsea have now drawn four of their last five Premier League matches at home and the squad will probably have a dressing room talk about making their peace with leaving the title candidature to Liverpool and Manchester City.PREMIER LEAGUE – Round 20TuesdayWatford – West Ham 1-4 (1-2)/Dennis 4 – Soucek 27, Benrahma 29, Noble 58 pen, Vlasic 90+2/Southampton – Tottenham 1-1 (1-1)/Ward-Prowse 25 – Kane 41 pen, /Crystal Palace – Norwich 3-0 (3-0)/Edouard 8 pen, Mateta 38, Schlupp 42/Leicester – Liverpool 1-0 (0-0)/Lookman 59/Arsenal – Wolverhampton Wanderers POSTPONEDLeeds – Aston Villa POSTPONEDWednesdayChelsea – Brighton 1-1 (1-0)/Lukaku 28 – Welbeck 90+1/Brentford – Man.City 0-1 (0-1)/Foden 17/ThursdayEverton – Newcastle POSTPONED23.15: (1.40) Man.Utd. (4.90) Burnley (9.00)***odds are subject to change
