Ighalo fires blank as Watford hold Chelsea

Nigeria striker, Odion Ighalo, failed to inspire Watford on Wednesday evening when they faced Barclays Premier League champions, Chelsea at Vicarage Road.

Watford forced the Blues to a goalless draw with Ighalo failing to find the net at home for the first time in eight games.

The 26-year-old striker, who scored twice in his last two-games to take his season’s tally to 15, was superb in the first half – his movements, skills and tricks caused panic among the visitors defence.

John Obi Mikel continued his resurgence under interim Chelsea boss, Guus Hiddink, and lasted the entire duration of the game – his 16th appearance this term.

After a bright Chelsea start, the Hornets grew into the contest and the Blues soon looked rattled.

Ighalo had a good chance when he was found in the box by Jose Holebas, before Thibaut Courtois made a series of good saves, first denying Craig Cathcart’s header before tipping away Etienne Capoue’s powerful drive.

Diego Costa nearly gave the visitors the lead before the interval as he pulled a shot towards goal on the turn.

Ahead of the break, Costa’s aggressive play was evident again as he and Juan Carlos Paredes had a coming together. The Spain international was infuriated, but credit to Ighalo who played a key part in calming down the Chelsea striker.

Both sides had dangerous opportunities early in the second half, Watford captain Troy Deeney first striking a 20-yard volley inches wide before Costa laid a chance on a plate for Oscar from six yards. Under pressure, the Brazilian playmaker side-footed wide.

An aggressive and entertaining contest, a 0-0 draw looked increasingly likely as Heurelho Gomes made more stunning saves, denying Hazard late on after Allan Nyom’s error. The Brazilian goalkeeper rushed out to scramble to Hazard’s feet before the Belgian – on as a substitute – could get a shot off.

Watford looked tired in the closing stages of the match and if there was going to be a winner; it looked like it would be Chelsea’s. Hazard dinked a ball to the far post and, on the stretch, Costa poked the ball into the side netting.

Costa leapt high in the closing stages to head towards the far corner but the ever-present Gomes secured the point as he dived across goal to save yet again.

Watford, on 33 points, climbed to 9th on the log ahead of Stoke City with a superior goal difference while Chelsea are 13th with 29 points.