Pickford demonstrates class as Everton holds Chelsea despite a weakened squad.

 Jordan Pickford shined as Everton drew 1-1 with Chelsea, losing ground in the fight for the Premier League title.

The England goalkeeper had to make nine stops in a contest when Chelsea had 23 shots on goal but just one goal to show for their dominance (a Mason Mount strike on 70 minutes). That lead lasted only four minutes until Jarrad Branthwaite equalized with a spectacular Anthony Gordon set-piece.

Chelsea are now four points behind Manchester City in third place in the Premier League table as a result of the draw.

The visitors put up a gallant effort despite missing Richarlison, Demarai Gray, Salomon Rondon, Lucas Digne, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Andros Townsend when they arrived at Stamford Bridge. Because of the club's selection issues, Benitez gave 20-year-old Ellis Simms his debut to lead the line.

Chelsea, however, were missing Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner, and Callum Hudson-Odoi after all three tested positive for Covid-19, leaving Thomas Tuchel with just eight substitutes, two of whom were goalkeepers.