A third draw in a row is something which Andre Villas-Boas can hardly afford at a time when he badly needs an upward movement in the Premier League table. But Fulham effectively forced a draw against the Blues on Monday night at Stamford Bridge much to the discomfiture of the Portuguese manager.

But again, even the Chelsea boss won't dispute the reality that his side were just a shadow of their famed real self in the Boxing Day evening challenge on their home ground. On the other hand, Fulham displayed clear signs of revival after the 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Manchester United a few days ago.

Juan Mata's excellent left-foot finish gave Chelsea the edge on 47 minutes. Then on, Fulham fought really hard and managed to level the score on 56 minutes when Clint Dempsey tapped home a low cross from Bryan Ruiz from close range.

Some thrilling moments from the Boxing Day clash are captured below:

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Chelsea's Romeu challenges Fulham 's Dembele during their English Premier League soccer match in London. Reuters
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Chelsea's Torres challenges Fulham's Kelly and Senderos during their English Premier League soccer match in London. Reuters
Chelsea-Fulham
Chelsea's Luiz challenges Fulham's Sa during their English Premier League soccer match in London. Reuters
Chelsea-Fulham
Chelsea's Mata shoots and scores as Fulham's Dempsey challenges during their English Premier League soccer match in London. Reuters
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Chelsea's Bosingwa challenges Fulham's Frei during their English Premier League soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London. Reuters
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Fulham's goalkeeper David Stockdale makes a save against Chelsea during their English Premier League soccer match in London Reuters
Manchester United FC