BLANK AND BLUES

Enzo's boys miss big chance to close the gap

- BY ROBERT O'CONNOR

CHELSEA missed the chance to cut the gap at the top of the Premier League as they were held to a goalless draw at Bournemouth.

Defeat for leaders Arsenal had given Enzo Maresca's team the chance to pull to within six points against a Bournemouth side who had been in free-fall after four losses in five, but despite a spirited second-half showing they were left to rue the lack of a decisive final ball.

They had been fortunate not to fall behind to an onslaught from the Cherries late in the first half, Robert Sanchez frustrating Andoni Iraola's team with an inspired showing.