Conte praise for Burnley graft
CHELSEA boss Antonio Conte paid tribute to Burnley despite seeing his Premier League title-chasers held to a 1-1 draw at Turf Moor.
Conte’s side, now 10 points clear of nearest challengers Tottenham at the top of the table, appeared to be on their way to a 17th win in 19 league games when Pedro fired them into a deserved early lead.
But Burnley, chasing an eighth straight win at Turf Moor in all competitions, hit back through record-signing Robbie Brady’s stunning free-kick on his full debut.
“We are disappointed to take only one point,” said Conte. “I have great respect for any team, for any manager.
“Burnley are third in the table with the games played at home. It means they are doing a great job at home. That’s the best compliment for them.”
Burnley restricted Chelsea to snatching at half-chances and spurned a golden opportunity to grab a second goal when Matt Lowton was denied by Thibaut Courtois’ brilliant save just before the break.
When asked why Burnley, promoted in May, are proving so formidable at home, Conte said: “The pitch is small and this is better for the team that has to defend and play long ball.
“You have less pitch to cover and then there is a good atmosphere with the supporters.
“We put a lot of energy on the pitch today and we took only one point.”
Conte refused to be drawn when asked about Jose Mourinho’s comments in his press conference on Friday that Chelsea are a defensive team, relying on counter-attacks and set-pieces.
“I don’t like to reply about the other coaches,” Conte added.
“I don’t like this joking. He’s playing. I have the experience to understand this.”