There were two rookie coaches hopping around on the touchline and both will feel they have spent a lifetime in management after this emotional rollercoaster. While Frank Lampard seethed at Chelsea’s lack of conviction at both ends of the pitch, Mikel Arteta wondered what on earth he is going to do with Shkodran Mustafi and marvelled at the fearlessness of Gabriel Martinelli. It was that sort of night, absorbing and bonkers in equal measure, and in the end it was difficult to know whether to focus on Chelsea’s sense of bewilderment or Arsenal’s joy.
For Lampard, the twist was tough to take but easy to explain. Chelsea played for more than an hour against 10 men, led twice and still dropped more points at home. They lacked creativity again, bolstering the argument that they need attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes, and paid for their carelessness when Martinelli, an 18-year-old winger with a wonderfully direct style, hauled Arsenal level with a stunning solo goal just after the hour.
Written by Jacob Steinberg at Stamford Bridge
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/jan/21/chelsea-arsenal-premier-league-match-report under the title “Héctor Bellerín leaves it late to secure 10-man Arsenal a draw at Chelsea”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
