Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium in a match that saw Cole Palmer make his first start in over two months. Bournemouth appeared to have taken the lead just three minutes into the game when Antoine Semenyo got the better of Robert Sanchez, but VAR ruled Evanilson offside during the build-up.
The Cherries dominated the first half, with Chelsea failing to register a shot on target by the end of the 45 minutes. The Blues nearly scored the game's opening goal when Alejandro Garnacho's header hit the outside of the post at the 50-minute mark but ultimately couldn't get past former Blues goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. Express Sport rates and slates the Blues...
Chelsea player ratings vs Bournemouth
Robert Sanchez - 7
Made a good save to deny Semenyo at the 36-minute mark. Frequently punched the ball from crosses and kept the game alive for the Cherries. Made some smart saves as well.
Malo Gusto - 7
Distributed the ball well when moving inside. Executed a brilliant spin to evade a challenge in the middle of the pitch, drawing reactions from the crowd. Made a fantastic sliding tackle to stop Alex Scott at the 68-minute mark.
Wesley Fofana - 6
Assertive when stepping up. He made a few forward runs with the ball to attempt to initiate a Chelsea attack. Impressive.
Trevoh Chalobah - 6
Similar to his centre-back partner, Chalobah demonstrated good game-reading skills, seizing possession several times when stepping up. However, there were a few careless moments from Chalobah, particularly just before half-time when a poor touch resulted in a decent opportunity for the hosts.
Marc Cucurella - 6
Had a reasonable chance to score in the first half but failed to direct his header on target. A neat performance, but nothing exceptional.
Reece James - 7
Returned to the team after being rested in Leeds. Looked incredibly solid for the Blues. Made an excellent sliding tackle to block a shot heading towards goal on 57 minutes.
Enzo Fernandez - 5
Appeared slightly sloppy in midfield. Almost seemed fatigued, which is understandable considering the amount of football he has played this season.
Pedro Neto - 7
Shone brightly on the right flank. Could have provided an assist in the first half but Marc Cucurella was unable to guide his header on target. Neto often appeared the most promising for Chelsea in terms of attack.
Cole Palmer - 6
First start since 20 September. Frequently dropped deep to find space - something he does exceptionally well. Sought to connect with Liam Delap whenever possible. Some sloppy, rusty passes, as expected. Substituted just before the hour mark.
Alejandro Garnacho - 6
Shone on the left wing against Adam Smith. Unlucky not to break the deadlock at the 50-minute mark with a header that grazed the post.
Liam Delap - 4
Engaged in numerous physical confrontations before being substituted due to injury at the 31-minute mark.
Substitutes
Marc Guiu (on for Delap 31) - 6
Selected ahead of Joao Pedro. The Spaniard demonstrated some impressive hold-up play at times - precisely what Enzo Maresca would have wanted.
Joao Pedro (on for Palmer 58) - 5
Substituted in and took up the No. 10 position. More subdued than he would have preferred.
Estevao Willian (on for Garnacho 77) - N/A
Entered the game too late to make a significant impact.