Essien strike denies Gunners

A stunning goal by Michael Essien preserved Chelsea's unbeaten league record under Jose Mourinho and cut Manchester United's lead at the top of the Barclays Premiership to eight points with a 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Arsenal had looked set to become the first side to beat the champions since they last achieved the feat in February 2004 when Matthieu Flamini put them ahead in the 78th minute.

But Essien rescued Chelsea with a 35-yard thunderbolt six minutes from the end and the home side were unlucky to finish on level terms when they twice hit the woodwork in stoppage time.

Frank Lampard hit the post in the first half and Didier Drogba missed numerous chances for the champions and Chelsea paid for their wastefulness when Flamini put the Gunners ahead in the 78th minute.

The Arsenal midfielder cleverly exchanged passes with Alexander Hleb on two occasions before sending a shot into the bottom corner.

The goal stung Chelsea into action and Drogba twice failed to supply the required finish before Essien despatched a thunderous right-foot drive in the 84th minute to level matters.

But there was still more to come with Chelsea twice hitting the woodwork in injury time - first Essien slammed the ball against the bar from two yards out and Lampard hit the inside of the post after Lehmann had spilled Arjen Robben's shot.