Thaindian News

London, Dec 23 (IANS) Chelsea captain John Terry blocked Tottenham Hotspur’s last shot with a desperate slide tackle late Thursday night and earned the Blues a 1-1 away draw in the Premier League’s last clash before Christmas.

Terry, who was charged Wednesday to have offended Queens Park Rangers player Anton Ferdinand with racist language, was given full support by manager Andre Villas-Boas, featuring in the starting 11 for this London derby.

The club and England captain responded well in the game, especially when he cleared Emmanuel Adebayor’s shot away on the line in stoppage time, ensuring his side earn a point at White Hart Lane.

The home side Tottenham made a dream start in the eighth minute. Adebayor, the lone striker up-front, capitalized on Gareth Bale’s grounded cross to net in the opening goal.

Chelsea, came back strongly to level the score after 15 minutes when England’s fullback Ashley Cole fed Daniel Sturridge with a low cross before a cool finish from the young striker.

Both sides failed to break the deadlock in the remaining 70 minutes. Chelsea’s Didier Drogba once hit the woodwork and Ramires also wasted a good chance after Juan Mata’s free-kick made him unmarked in the area.

After the 17th round fixtures, Hotspur stood third with 35 points but have a game in hand. Chelsea was still fourth, two points less than the city’s rival. Manchester City and United, both registered convincing victories Wednesday, and lead the table with 44 and 42 points respectively.