Chelsea Held by a Birmingham City Team Full of Hart

When a footballer of Frank Lampard's stature is presented with a golden opportunity to score a goal, many fans would back the Chelsea midfielder to find the back of the net.

Against Birmingham City however, Lampard failed to convert a wonderful chance to put Chelsea one up in the first half.

The England midfielder could only look on in shock as he watched his volley from point blank range go over the bar, courtesy of a marvellous save from Birmingham goalkeeper Joe Hart.

It was just one of many brilliant stops from Hart in a game where City nearly found themselves causing one of the upsets of the Premier League season.

After a positive opening from the hosts, Chelsea restored stability in the midfield, and pushed forward in search of the first goal.

Despite Chelsea's dominance, they were continually foiled by the tremendous form of Hart, who produced a career defining performance against the Premier League leaders.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper was the main figure for a Birmingham team which is growing in confidence with every passing game.

Indeed Hart's efforts between the posts were nearly rewarded with a goal from Birmingham forward Christian Benetiz.

Benetiz' goal, however, was disallowed for off-side, and City were forced to share the points against their illustrious rivals.

Regardless of the stalemate, Birmingham find themselves in a terrific position on the Premier League ladder, in comparison to where they were just months earlier.

City's nil all draw against Chelsea has extended their unbeaten run to ten matches, erasing the terrible start to a season which saw them win only two of their opening nine games.

Birmingham now find themselves just six points adrift of an automatic Champions League position.

Although there is still a long way to go in the season, City will fancy their chances of at least getting a Europa League spot.

Their effort over the past ten matches will serve as the foundation for a strong finish to a season where top four spots are still up for grabs.

It is a marvellous effort from a side which was just promoted to the Premier League this season, after spending 2008/09 in the Football League Championship.

And if goalkeeper Hart can repeat his match winning performance against Chelsea on a consistent basis, then a trip to South Africa for next year's FIFA World Cup could also be on the cards for the England international.