Arsenal held back by Chelsea

LONDON — Arsene Wenger failed for the 10th time to get the better of Jose Mourinho as Arsenal was held to a 0-0 draw by Chelsea on Monday, missing a chance to return to the top of the Premier League.

The London derby, played with rain swirling around the Emirates Stadium, failed to produce the drama expected, with few attempts on goal.

“They defended well, were well organized and we didn’t find our zippy movements to play between the lines as we can,” said Wenger, whose side lost 6-3 at Manchester City in its last game. “In the second half, we took control of the game and had two or three chances where we could have done better.”

Chelsea came closest in the first half when Frank Lampard’s shot struck the crossbar, while Arsenal only threatened Petr Cech’s goal in the closing minutes when Olivier Giroud shot wide from a tight angle.

It meant that in Mourinho’s two stints as Chelsea manager, Wenger has now endured five draws and five losses.

“It is a solid point, but two points dropped at home,” Wenger said.

Arsenal is ahead in the Premier League, only behind leader Liverpool on goal difference and two points ahead of fourth-place Chelsea.

Mourinho’s mission was to shackle an Arsenal team that hasn’t been beaten at home in the league since the opening day of the season. And the Portuguese coach succeeded with his well-organized side, prompting Arsenal fans to boo the visitors and chant “Boring, boring Chelsea.”

“I agree,” Mourinho said. “I played against them 10 times and I never lost ... it was very important not to lose because if we lose we are five points behind the leader and with a point we are two points behind both leaders.”

The teams are back in action on Thursday, with Chelsea hosting Swansea and Arsenal at West Ham.