Sunderland's lead lasted just over ten minutes before the Black Cats gave Chelsea a penalty kick. Frank Lampard stepped to the spot and equalized in the 15th minute, pulling the Blues even, 1-1, after 15 minutes.
Chelsea Vs. Sunderland: Frank Lampard Equalizes From The Spot
The penalty was awarded by Mark Halsey when Ahmed Al-Mohammadi, Sunderland's right midfielder, went through the back of Ashley Cole in the left side of the Black Cats' area. Lampard confidently beat Craig Gordon, cancelling out Phil Bardsley's fourth minute opener.
It was a much needed goal for the Blues, whose early deficit recalled the decisive 3-0 victory Sunderland posted on them earlier this season at Stamford Bridge. Sitting ten points behind Manchester United, Chelsea can afford few slips if they're intent on rejoining the league's title race.
For Sunderland’s part, a win would put them within one point of Chelsea, and with the defending champions currently sitting in fourth place, such a victory would announce Steve Bruce’s side as legitimate contenders for Champions League. But for now, Sunderland must regain the moment lost with Lampard’s penalty, a score that leaves us 1-1 after a quarter hour.
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