Chelsea 2-2 Burnley: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis | Premier League 2018-19 

#3 Zonal marking affects Chelsea as Burnley restore parity

Chelsea FC v Burnley FC - Premier League

In terms of applying the high press, positioning themselves in midfield and the aerial battles, Chelsea were largely astute. However, the biggest catalyst to their downfall last night was the zonal marking used by Maurizio Sarri.

Firstly, there was no need to place two players on either post with Burnley flooding the box. Next, the Blue shirts that set out to cover areas were too close to Arrizabalaga, meaning he couldn't come out of his lines and catch the ball comfortably.

In both the goals, we saw two-three Chelsea players covering zones and areas, but leaving players unmarked. The goal by Ashley Barnes was a clear testament to the above explanation, as the best men in defending set pieces - David Luiz and Andreas Christensen - were both locked at the center of the six-yard box, without a Burnley shirt near them.

Sean Dyche masterminded this move, knowing full well that if his players find the spaces that aren't covered by Chelsea, they have a realistic chance of threatening in front of goal.

As a result, Barnes on the far side, was not marked at all, with Luiz, Emerson and Christensen all in the middle. However, credit goes to Burnley for bringing this straight off the training ground.