Chelsea and Aston Villa Draws Damage Champions League Prospects

Chelseas hopes of securing a spot in the Champions League suffered a setback after Burnley managed a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge, with Aston Villa also rescuing a late point against Leeds on Saturday.

The Blues moved into fourth place in the Premier League standings solely on goal difference following their failure to capitalise on Joao Pedros early goal in the fourth minute.

Chelsea controlled the game until Wesley Fofana received a red card with 18 minutes left due to a second booking.

Burnley capitalised fully when Zian Flemming nodded in from a corner in the 93rd minute, preserving their faint chances of avoiding relegation.

The Clarets now sit just eight points from safety.

Villa had been holding their own against Arsenal and Manchester City in the title contention until lately, yet a 1-1 stalemate extended their slump at Villa Park.

Anton Stachs impressive free-kick from around 40 yards at a tight angle deceived Emi Martinez at his near post, putting Leeds ahead.

Daniel Farkes side has dropped points only twice in their previous 16 matches, easing concerns about a relegation scrap.

However, Tammy Abraham equalised for Villa just two minutes before the end.

Five teams from the Premier League will earn qualification for next years Champions League, boosted by the solid showings of English clubs in European tournaments this campaign.

Liverpool and Manchester United could narrow the gap soon when they play Nottingham Forest and Everton in upcoming fixtures.

James Milner achieved a new benchmark with 654 Premier League outings during Brightons 2-0 victory over Brentford.

The 40-year-old featured from the start for the Seagulls, who claimed their first triumph in seven outings, reducing the heat on manager Fabian Hurzeler.

Diego Gomez rifled home the first goal for the away team after Ferdi Kadioglus brilliant effort struck the crossbar.

Danny Welbeck capitalised on loose defending by Brentford to make it 2-0 for Brighton shortly before the interval.

Manchester City have an opportunity to trail Arsenal by only two points when they welcome Newcastle for Saturdays 2000GMT start.

The Gunners have revived interest in the title fight for City after lacklustre draws at Brentford and Wolves since Pep Guardiolas team last competed in the Premier League.

Arsenal face Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in the north London derby away from home.