Late Flemming Header Haunts 10-Man Chelsea In Stamford Bridge Draw

Burnley striker Zian Flemming dramatically headed home in stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw against ten-man Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Flemming capitalised on a James Ward-Prowse corner in the 93rd minute, as Chelsea lost their grip on the match following Wesley Fofana’s dismissal.

The Blues had been in control until the defender received his second yellow card in the 72nd minute for a challenge on Ward-Prowse, having taken an early lead through Joao Pedro in the fourth minute.

However, questions will undoubtedly be asked as Chelsea have now squandered a league-high 17 points from winning positions at home this season. They also lead the Premier League with six red cards, accumulating eight across all competitions.

It initially appeared to be a comfortable afternoon for Chelsea when Joao Pedro bundled in Pedro Neto’s cross from close range in the fourth minute.

Cole Palmer nearly extended their lead after a Kyle Walker error, but his shot failed to beat Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. Two further efforts were also blocked in the first half.

Burnley’s only notable first-half opportunity arose when Lesley Ugochukwu volleyed over from a corner awarded under a new rule, penalising Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez for time-wasting.

After the break, Joao Pedro had another shot blocked by former Chelsea defender Bashir Humphreys before heading over from a corner in the 66th minute.

Burnley hadn’t registered a second-half shot before Fofana’s second yellow card in the 72nd minute, following an earlier booking for a late challenge on Hannibal Mejbri.

Four minutes later, Josh Laurent forced a save from Sanchez. Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior introduced defenders, while Scott Parker brought on attackers in pursuit of an equaliser.

Flemming was unmarked when he headed in his dramatic leveller, and substitute Jacob Bruun Larsen missed a similar chance moments later. Chelsea supporters voiced their displeasure, booing their team off at the final whistle.

Chelsea climb to fourth in the Premier League, having played a game more than Manchester United, but fail to narrow the gap on Aston Villa, who drew against Leeds. Burnley remain second-bottom, eight points from safety.