Chelsea’s frustrating inability to score goals reared its ugly head once again in their match against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.
Despite dominating the first half, the Blues were unable to convert their advantage into clear-cut opportunities and those that they did create were squandered.
The second half was a more even affair, but both teams were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and excellent goalkeeping.
Chelsea’s failure to break the deadlock emboldened the hosts, who were denied a victory only by the heroics of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
The match ended in a goalless stalemate, marking the first 0-0 draw in the Premier League this season.
The result leaves Chelsea languishing in 14th place with only five points from five games, having scored and conceded the same number of goals.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino was disappointed with the outcome but acknowledged that the game had been fiercely competitive.
He felt that his team deserved more, having created several good chances, particularly in the first half.
Pochettino called on his players to be tougher and more efficient in front of goal while remaining calm under pressure.
Chelsea’s expensive recruitment drive and the arrival of Pochettino had raised expectations for the season, following a humiliating campaign in the previous year.
However, the team’s early performances have been erratic, with results and displays falling short of expectations.
A demoralising home defeat to Nottingham Forest before the international break had added to the pressure on the team to secure a much-needed victory against Bournemouth.
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The hosts, under new Spanish coach Andoni Iraola, had also struggled to find their form, with two draws and two defeats from their opening four games.
Despite this, Bournemouth made a strong start to the match, as Chelsea struggled to create chances. Raheem Sterling and Nicolas Jackson both went close, with Sterling’s shot flashing across the face of the goal and Jackson’s effort striking the post.
As the half wore on, Bournemouth began to pose a greater threat, with Dango Ouattara coming closest to scoring after a low cross from the left.
However, Sanchez was quick off his line to smother the ball. Chelsea regained control and Conor Gallagher forced a good save from Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto with a skilful run and shot.
With the game still goalless, Sterling almost broke the deadlock with a stunning free-kick that hit the underside of the crossbar.
Levi Colwill tucked away the rebound but was ruled offside.
The introduction of Cole Palmer failed to inspire Chelsea, and it was Bournemouth who came closest to scoring again, as Dominic Solanke wriggled free in the box only to be denied by Sanchez.
In the end, neither team could find a winner, leaving Pochettino with more questions than answers.
Chelsea’s continued struggles in front of goal are a cause for concern, and the team will need to improve quickly if they are to fulfil their potential this season.
