Chelsea secure top-four spot despite defeat
By Joseph Ayinde
Chelsea secured their place in the UEFA Champions League next season, even though they lost 2-1 at Aston Villa.
Mason Mount had the best of the early opportunities, firing over as he missed the chance to put Chelsea ahead.
Villa took the lead on 43 minutes with a goal from former Chelsea player Bertrand Traore, who hit a first-time effort from Matt Targett’s low corner in off the underside of the crossbar.
Traore then won a penalty after being fouled by Jorginho, which Anwar El Ghazi converted on 52 minutes.
Ben Chilwell pulled a goal back for the Blues on 70 minutes, before Cesar Azpilicueta was sent off for violent conduct later on.
Chelsea finish in fourth with 67 points, one above Leicester City after their 4-2 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
Villa claimed 11th position with 55 points.
