(Video): Pedro Neto’s sublime skill not enough to break down tough Everton defence

It’s just gone half time in Chelsea’s game with Everton at Goodison Park, and nobody should be surprised to hear it’s 0-0 at the break.

The Toffees have already been involved in an impressive 4 0-0 draws this season. When you combine that with Chelsea’s poor scoring record at Everton (they have 0 goals from open play in 4 and a half games now) you have a recipe for a low scorer.

That’s not to say that Enzo Maresca’s team haven’t had chances – Nicolas Jackson put a shot straight at the goalkeeper, and later hit the post. The Blues could also have had a penalty. But largely Maresca’s team have been locked down.

One superb moment which almost broke a determined Everton block came from Pedro Neto. Out on the right, the winger received a long diagonal with a first touch that flicked the ball back centrally and allowed him in behind. It came to nothing, but it showed the sort of thing this team need to break down a solid defence.

You can see the skill in the clips embedded here:

[Footage from NBC Sport]

On another occasion he burst between two players and was dragged down. His explosiveness is the only thing really working for the Blues right now.

You can see that moment in the clip embedded here:

Chelsea need half time shake up – or just some better luck

We need more action like this in the second half – and maybe even Noni Madueke introduced on the far side to do similar things. Jadon Sancho has been totally locked down, with Sean Dyche’s side making sure not to give him the space he needs to create or shoot.

Joao Felix is another option on the bench – and Christopher Nkunku is ready too. If there are still no goals after 60 minutes, expect the change to begin.