TEMPO.CO, Manchester – Manchester City stopped Chelsea’s winning streak with a 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium. The draw, however, was not an easy one for the home team, especially in facing Chelsea’s notorious bus-parking strategy.

After coming under ferocious attack at the first half, The Blues for the first time had the upper hand when Manchester City were one man down. Pablo Zabaleta was sent off after making harsh contact with Chelsea new star Diego Costa.

Losing Zabaleta was a disaster for City. Chelsea’s substitute Andre Schurrle scored to put Chelsea ahead four minutes after Zabaleta was ejected off the field.

One goal down, Manuel Pelegrini sent former Chelsea player and living legend Frank Lampard, who received a standing ovation from both sides of the team. Lampard then ironically scored against his former club and equalized the scoreline, yet showing no celebration in respect to his former club.

The draw, at last, did not change Chelsea’s being on top of Premier League with 13 points. Defending champion Manchester City, meanwhile, sit at sixth with eight points in hand.

DWI AGUSTIAR