Own-goal agony for Chelsea

Chelsea 2 Reading 2 FT

A comical own-goal by Michael Essien saw Chelsea drop crucial points on Barclays Premiership leaders Manchester United as Reading twice came from behind to draw 2-2 at Stamford Bridge.

After scoring late winners in their last two games, the champions this time put through their own net with five minutes remaining.

Didier Drogba’s double – his 18th and 19th goals of the season, had looked like putting Chelsea a point clear of United – who kicked off against Wigan later.

In a tight tussle, the Ivory Coast striker broke the deadlock seven minutes before half-time, holding off Marcus Hahnemann to nod in Frank Lampard’s corner.

The visitors deservedly drew level when Leroy Lita stayed just onside and stooped to head in Glen Little’s cross.

Drogba looked to have won it when he headed in Shaun Wright-Phillips’ cross 18 minutes from time but a mishit clearance from Ashley Cole struck team-mate Essien, leaving Hilario stranded and earning Reading a point.