In different circumstances the boos when the full-time whistle arrived and Stamford Bridge digested another stumble from Chelsea on home soil would have been the story of the day. It would have been about Enzo Maresca’s shortcomings against a low block, the creative deficit caused by Cole Palmer’s absence and the inconsistencies preventing the youngest team in the Premier League from muscling their way into the title race.
Victory would have lifted Chelsea two points off top spot before Arsenal host Crystal Palace on Sunday. Victory, though, was never within their grasp. Sunderland, again showing why they are such a fine addition to the Premier League, never allowed the world champions to assume control.
