Everton 0-0 Chelsea, Premier League: Reaction after the match, viewing figures

The pattern of the game was established very early on, with Chelsea maintaining the vast majority of possession and Everton is left with ten men in the box.

Everton’s game plan was greatly aided by the conditions, which were particularly dire at the start of the match: howling winds and pouring rain. Sean Dyche couldn’t have dreamed of better. The most recent Merseyside Derby was called off for less.

Chelsea eventually broke the hosts a couple of times but couldn’t quite convert, with Pickford making a superb save on a Jackson chance before the striker also hit the post at a corner. Malo Gusto had a chance on the rebound in both cases, but was also unable to hit the target.

Everton had a look at goal, from a midfield turnover, but Sánchez made the necessary save.

And so the second half began, with Sánchez producing a brilliant stop to keep the game goalless before Chelsea grew back into the game after a slower start to the period.

But just like in the first half, we were not able to break down the opposition, which was also a bit more game to play now. And only a tremendous block by Tosin Adarabioyo kept the game scoreless as we entered the final quarter.

Unfortunately, the last quarter did not provide the necessary quality or luck to find a winner, for either side.

Carefree.

• Defensive reshuffle due to injuries and suspensions, with Gusto starting on the left and Disasi on the right
• First time we haven’t scored in a league game since the opening day defeat to Manchester City
• Win streak ends at 8; time to start another one!
• Everton’s fourth 0-0 draw in their last six games
• Chelsea remain second, a point behind Liverpool, who play next, away to Spurs (and will still have a game to spare)
• Next: Fulham at home on Boxing Day
• KTBFFH

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