Chelsea held at Blackburn

Didier Drogba

Chelsea failed to make their first half dominance count as Blackburn Rovers deservedly came from behind at Ewood Park to earn a 1-1 draw.

The Blues title aspirations took a blow as they allowed Blackburn to gain a point after the visitor's had taken an early first half lead through Didier Drogba but failed to capitalise and then allowed El-Hadji Diouf to level with twenty minutes remaining.

Drogba scored his 28th goal of the campaign after only six minutes as Chelsea went on to control the first forty five minutes without adding to their scoreline.

Rovers looked a different team after the break and deservedly levelled in the 70th minute to ease their Down relegation fears.

With Chelsea forced on the defensive, Michel Salgado burst down the right to cross for Diouf to rise above Paulo Ferreira and head home at the near post past Ross Turnbull.

The Blues came back into the game but chances remained at a premium, as Drogba's scorching low volley was brilliantly saved by Jason Brown to ensure the initiative remains with Manchester United and Arsenal at the summit.