Chelsea’s wayward finishing was again on show as their miserable season finished with a 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle, whose travelling supporters celebrated their fourth-placed finish at a sun-drenched Stamford Bridge.
The visitors, fresh from confirming a return to the Champions League for the first time in 20 years earlier this week, came flying out of the blocks and exposed a vulnerable Chelsea defence just nine minutes in, when an unmarked Anthony Gordon converted his first goal for the club from close range.
A Kieran Trippier own goal (27) gave the home fans something to celebrate, but, despite a series of off-target efforts in the second half and a glorious chance for Christian Pulisic in the final seconds, Chelsea could not find a way to sign off a terrible year with a win.
The draw means Chelsea finish the season with their lowest-ever Premier League points total of 44, with just 38 goals in 38 games and down in 12th place. Frank Lampard’s interim tenure ends with just one win from 11 games.
It could have been worse as Lewis Miley almost had a fairytale first appearance for Newcastle. The Gateshead-born 17-year-old – their youngest-ever Premier League appearance maker – stepped off the bench and clipped a shot against the top of the bar. He got a huge reception from the Newcastle fans, who celebrated long after the final whistle their season to remember.
Source: Sky sports
In other news-Arsenal 5 – 0 Wolves
Arsenal 5 – 0 Wolves. Arsenal recorded a thumping win over Wolves to end a fine Premier League season with a flourish at Emirates Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s side, who were already assured of second place, ended the campaign on 84 points – the Gunners’ highest points tally since the ‘Invincibles’ team took the title with 90 in 2003-04.
Their unexpected and exciting title challenge may have collapsed in recent weeks, but the hosts looked back to their best and were helped by passive opponents.
Granit Xhaka, who has been heavily linked with a move to the Bundesliga, set them on their way when he nodded in Gabriel Jesus’ early cross from the right. Learn more
