Heskey Leaves Chelsea Hopes In Ruins

Chelsea have suffered a major set-back in their quest to overhaul Manchester United in the title race by slipping up at home to Wigan. Emile Heskey snatched an injury-time equaliser to cancel out Michael Essien's 55th minute strike. Steve Bruce gambled during the closing stages, introducing Jason Koumas, Antoine Sibierski and Marlon King from the bench in an attempt to claim something from a game that was, in truth, never beyond them.

Chelsea were pedestrian in the first half, frustrated by the organisation and structure of their guests as well as their own lack of imagination.

They began the second half in much better fashion, John Terry hit a post before Solomon Kalou forced a fantastic save form Kirkland.

Within seconds, Chelsea had he lead through Essien’s fine 20 yard right foot effort. The hosts failed to capitalise on their lead, despite the best intentions of the lively Joe Cole, and were made to pay deep into injury time as Emile Heskey slid home to take a point to the JJB and ease Bruce's relegation fears.

The repercussions for Avram Grant could be fatal as his side failed to close the gap on Manchester United. Go united..