ENGLAND: Premier League - Round 1Chelsea battled to a draw against Swansea at Stamford Bridge, despite playing much of the second half with 10 men following Thibaut Courtois' harsh dismissal.

In a game that had it all and in which Chelsea showed impressive character, the momentum swung this way and that with Chelsea in front at the time of Courtois' sending off- the goalkeeper deemed guilty of bringing down Swansea forward Bafetimbi Gomis inside the area and denying a goalscoring opportunity by referee Michael Oliver, although the Swansea striker's run was taking him away from goal, while Gary Cahill was covering.

Late in the game we suffered a second blow when Diego Costa was fouled by Ashley Williams in a threatening position, with the challenge going unpunished.

The Blues had gone in front through Oscar's bending free-kick from out wide midway through the first half. Swansea levelled through debutant Andre Ayew before Willian's deflected cross immediately put us back in charge at half-time.

The red card, awarded after 52 minutes, was crucial. Not only did it allow Gomis to level the scores but it also meant Jose Mourinho had to remove the excellent Oscar from proceedings to make way for substitute goalkeeper Asmir Begovic - who was outstanding on his first Chelsea appearance.

The home side then had to soak up periods of Swansea pressure, with Begovic making a couple of critical saves, while Eden Hazard and Branislav Ivanovic each had opportunities to put us back in front.


It could have been so different had we kept our full complement of players, who must be credited for the character shown in adversity.