By Daily Sports on December 17, 2021

Chelsea missed a chance to move two points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City as a depleted Everton side earned a superb point at Stamford Bridge.

England midfielder Mason Mount gave the hosts a deserved lead in the 70th minute with a calm finish past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford following Reece James’ pass.

But Everton equalised four minutes later when 19-year-old defender Jarrad Branthwaite, in his first league appearance of the season, converted at the back post after Anthony Gordon’s free-kick.

Thiago Silva had a chance to win it for the hosts but saw his powerful header superbly saved by Pickford. It was an impressive performance from the England international as he also kept out earlier efforts from Christian Pulisic, James, Jorginho and three strikes from Mount when it was goalless.

“Jordan Pickford made some good saves; it is important to have a good goalkeeper,” Everton boss Rafael Benitez said.

“Sometimes you need a bit of luck, this year we are not very lucky with all the injuries.

“Obviously, it is difficult to get points here but ... we did it with so many senior players not available and players on the bench still with some issues.”

On Branthwaite’s goal, Benitez added: “He’s a good player, a young player who has the potential. We were practising set-pieces, so really pleased for him.” (BBC)

•PHOTO: Only Arsenal (20) have had more different teenage goalscorers in the Premier League than Everton, with Jarrad Branthwaite the 19th for the Toffees

Source Daily Sports

Posted December 17, 2021

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