Many Chelsea fans may have thought their side were in pole position to upset the odds in the race for top four this season after their convincing win over Liverpool last Sunday, but Huddersfield left Stamford Bridge with their chins held high while Chelsea knew their backs were now against the wall in their end of season fight.
The Blues could have piled pressure on Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur had they picked up maximum points on Wednesday against Huddersfield, but the side fighting relegation had better hunger than the Blues on the night. They picked up a vital away point that spelled doom for Chelsea.
Tottenham won their game against Newcastle United to put a four point gap between themselves and Chelsea as they leapfrogged Liverpool into third, on 74 points.
Now all Chelsea can hope for is a miraculous Brighton win over Liverpool at Anfield on the final day of the season, while they focus on winning against Newcastle United at St James’ Park. That seems very unlikely with Liverpool needing a fine finish to a successful Premier League and a game that would also serve as a big preparation for their Champions League final against Real Madrid.
Even a draw for Liverpool on Saturday would mean sealing qualification to Champions League next season as their superior goal difference would see them sink Chelsea into Europa League oblivion.
